FORT BENNING, Ga., (Aug. 31, 2016) -- School officials, parents and other members of the Fort Benning community gathered Aug. 23 at McBride Elementary School for the school's ribbon cutting and dedication.

The new elementary school was rededicated to Capt. Morris McBride. Ann McBride Henderson, McBride's widow, and Kirsten McBride Carpenter, his daughter, were in attendance.

"I'm very proud. I was at the dedication to the original McBride as well. I'm very excited to tour the school," said Henderson.

"It's absolutely amazing. I look forward to seeing the school today," added Carpenter.

Thomas Brady, the Department of Defense Education Activity director, returned to Fort Benning for the event.

"I'm really excited about today. It feels like being back home again. This new elementary school is absolutely fantastic. I think the kids are going to be remarkably well served by the staff here and it's great to see the McBride family as we rededicate the building to Capt. Morris McBride," said Brady.

Dr. Christy Huddleston, DoDEA Americas Southeast District superintendent, gave the closing remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

"It is such a great honor to see the family of Capt. Morris McBride here. To have a hero for our children to learn about in their curriculum and incorporate his life into their studies," Huddleston said.

The school year is off to a wonderful start. The kids have completely adjusted to learning in the studio classrooms and the neighborhoods. Each of the teachers has taken all of the training they've had this past year and put it to use in their instruction, she added.

According to Huddleston, parents have responded well to all of the changes.

"They love it. For many of our parents, this is the first time they've been in a 21st century learning environment," she said.

"I'm so excited to be here today. It's been an incredible experience. To be able to meet the family of Capt.

Morris McBride is just wonderful, and I'm so glad that our students will have the chance to experience such a wonderful facility, added Dr. Lisa Coleman, DoDEA Americas Georgia/Alabama Community superintendent.

The ribbon cutting ceremony exceeded the expectations of Phyllis Parker, McBride Elementary's principal.

"Today was all that I had hoped it would be. My favorite moment was when Mrs. McBride saw the mural of Capt. McBride as she walked in. It's also been good to see former teachers that taught here and my fellow colleagues," said Parker.

It's all been so awe inspiring, today's speakers and the building of course. The focus was on the mission and the vision of the school in relation to the kids. It's a great reminder of why everyone is here, added Amy Dilmer, the assistant principal.