CANTON, Ohio — November is National Veterans and Military Families Month, and for one Ohio high school, supporting those who serve our country is as important as making the grade.
Some students at Jackson High School are helping the community and military members get into the holiday spirit this year with the help of an old familiar tune. They’re bringing the musical “White Christmas” to the school’s stage.
“It makes me feel almost important in a way,” said Jason Ruppert, a senior. “Because through the musicals I’ve done here, we haven’t done one with a really, really important meaning like this one.”
The show starts during World War II, as a group of soldiers take a break from battle to enjoy some songs on the holiday, to help raise spirits.
“We know you’re going through a really terrible time right now, but we’re getting through it together,” Ruppert said.
Ruppert said his role is a way for him to connect with a great grandparent, who was a commanding officer in World War I.
“I never met them, but it almost, this seems like a way where I can almost see a part of themselves in me,” he said.
The show is a musical adaptation of the 1954 film “White Christmas” starring Bing Crosby and features a song with a meaning deeper than winter snow.
“I hope that they just get that friends and family and just a time to be with them,” said Kaden Kovarik, a junior.
Off stage, art students are also getting into the act.
Olivia Richardson, a senior, used her pencil to help share the stories of those serving our country by creating a post card folks attending the show can sign. They’ll be sent to a Jackson High School graduate who’s now at sea with the Navy.
“I just hope that everyone on that ship will feel the spirit of the holidays and feel a little bit like people are looking out for them,” Richardson said. “And hoping and praying for them.”
Jackson High School is one of 169 schools in the state who renewed their Purple Star designation with the Ohio Department of Education this year. The honor recognizes a commitment to serving students and families connected to the armed forces.
The next performances of “White Christmas” are scheduled for Nov. 5 and 6.
