Three Opportunities To Honor Veterans

Minnetonka Schools will celebrate Veterans Day with three events taking place in the schools on Monday, Nov. 11.

• Excelsior Elementary – 9:15 a.m.

This annual event has 4th grade students singing, reading poetry and presenting the colors.  

The keynote speaker is Andy Johnson, a 1983 graduate of Excelsior Elementary and a 1992 graduate of Minnetonka High School.  He attended the United States Naval Academy and was commissioned as a Navy Ensign in 1997.  

Andy served eight years as a Navy Special Operations Officer (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) completing tours in Japan, Italy, Germany, Africa, and Kuwait.  He now lives in Hopkins and practices law in Minneapolis.  Many local Veterans attend this program each year.  Attached video is from last year's event.

• Deephaven Elementary – 1:15p.m.

Veterans will visit students in classrooms starting around 12:45, then move into the gym for an all-school program.  Students will sing patriotic songs and present the colors.

• Minnetonka High School – 1:50 p.m.

The entire MHS student body will attend a program in the West Gym that will honor Veterans.  Scheduled speakers include U.S. Representative Erik Paulsen and Merrilee Carlson.  

Ms. Carlson will speak on behalf of Gold Star Families and the loss of her son Michael.  Mr. Paulsen will bring a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capital.  The MHS Choir will sing the National Anthem and Excelsior VFW members will present the colors.  All Minnetonka High School alumni who are Veterans or are currently serving in the Armed Forces have been invited.