FORT DETRICK, Md. -- Whittier Elementary School students and faculty welcomed Soldiers from Fort Detrick to help celebrate the end of the school year, June 12.

In keeping with this long-running tradition, Soldiers from the 21st Signal Brigade lowered the American Flag on the last day of school. U.S. Army Garrison Fort Detrick Command Sgt. Maj. Erick Detrich also spoke to the kids, encouraging them to celebrate their accomplishments and enjoy their summer.

Whittier Elementary School is one of the feeder schools for military children at Fort Detrick, and was recently recognized as a Maryland Purple Star School for its specialized support to military families.

Whittier Elementary School students and faculty welcomed Soldiers from Fort Detrick to help celebrate the end of the school year, June 12. U.S. Army Garrison Fort Detrick Command Sgt. Maj. Erick Detrich also spoke to the kids, encouraging them to celebrate their accomplishments and enjoy their summer.