FORT BLISS, Texas--Soldiers of 1st Battalion 362nd Regiment Air Defense Artillery "Renegade", attended a Veteran's Day Ceremony hosted by members of the National Junior Honor Society, headed by chapter sponsor Sonia Arostegui, at Hurshel Antwine Elementary School, Nov. 11.

The ceremony began with El Dorado High School's Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps presenting the National Colors. Following the colors, the Cougar Band performed "The Star-Spangled Banner" directed by Robert Schulz. School principal, Stacy Sonnier welcomed the Soldiers and veterans in attendance.

Several students of the NJHS stood up to express their thoughts and feelings on what patriotism meant to them, and to express their gratitude to all the Soldiers and veterans that have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

"In a way, patriotism means to all human beings that we should honor our Soldiers, Marines, Navy SEALs and many more," said Alejandra Guerrero, member of the NJHS. "In what they have done for this land we call our country or in other words our United States of America."

The NJHS presented Soldiers and veterans who are members of the Partnership in Education Program with awards to express their appreciation for all the Soldiers' participation and hard work with the students. The award ceremony was followed by the Cougar Choir, directed by Brenda Solano, performing, "A Patriotic Trilogy", arranged by Andy Clark.

The ceremony concluded with Maj. Edward L. Smith, battalion executive officer of the "Renegades" and avid participant in the Partnership in Education Program, presented Sonnier with a certificate of appreciation for hosting the Veterans Day ceremony.