Culinary students at Erwin High School are known to plate amazing dishes. A special lunch Thursday was more than a meal, however. It was an expression of gratitude and thanks.
The school’s FCCLA chapter organized a Veterans Lunch Celebration, bringing together local veterans and those who work for the school to enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by students and their advisors.
“So much of the month of November is about gratitude and thankfulness,” said Erwin High teacher Lacey Davis, one of the school’s FCCLA advisors. “We wanted to make sure we had a day to highlight our veterans and show that as a community, Erwin High School is thankful for everything they’ve done.”
Students hosted the event, including a gracious welcome, a special performance by a student singer, and meal service. Other student groups joined FCCLA and Foods classes in preparing for the event, including the Erwin High School JROTC and interior design students.
“This is an incredible student-led event,” said BCS Superintendent Dr. Rob Jackson, who served as an electrician in the U.S. Navy. “I thank all the veterans here today, and I’d also like to thank these incredible students and their teachers. I think you’ll agree the future is in great hands.”
The Veterans Lunch Celebration also included a poem read by Boone Davis, a student at Eblen Intermediate School. He and his fellow Junior Beta Club members created thank you cards for the veterans in attendance.
“No matter how much food we serve or how much love we give, our veterans may not truly understand how truly thankful we are for them,” said junior Peyton Sparks. “This is a small way we can bring our community together and hopefully show we are so grateful for what they’ve done for our country.”
Each veteran left with a gift bag from members of Erwin High’s FCCLA.


