L-P holds annual Veterans Day program

La Salle-Peru Township High School honored local veterans at its annual Veterans Day program Wednesday morning. This year’s keynote was given by L-P math teacher Eric Bjerkaas, an Army veteran who served in Bosnia.The program, held in Sellett Gymnasium, opened with a prelude from the L-P Symphonic Band directed by Jeremy Stevens, the posting of colors by the La Salle VFW and the national anthem. Senior Class President Paityn Maurice led the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Concert Choir, directed by Natalie Verucchi performed “God Bless America.”L-P Superintendent Clayton Theisinger welcomed the crowd with a remembrance of his own family’s service. Theisinger has family who had served in the Navy and Army during World War II, along with the Army during the Korean War.“It is a reminder that the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today were not simply given to us,” he said. “They were protected by the courage and sacrifices of others.”Theisinger challenged students to honor that through ev