MATTAWA - Thanks to educator Jay Scott, Wahluke High School has had one of the best Veterans Day celebrations in a public school setting for four years.

Scott has moved on to Horizons High School in Pasco this year, but he is still organizing Wahluke's celebration of Veterans Day.

"He's very patriotic," Wahluke Principal Jeff Pietla said. "He served in the Middle East, and he's very appreciative of the fact we hired him here."

Pietla himself has a streak of patriotism. His father and both grandfathers served in the military.

Scott has organized two Veterans Day assemblies this year. The first will be held at New Horizons on Nov. 7. The second will be held at Wahluke High School on Friday, Nov. 8 at 10:30 a.m. in the gym.

Some people might call Scott's veterans assemblies elaborate. They include the usual honoring of the U.S. flag with a military color guard.

In addition to the speeches, Scott brings in soldiers who spend time talking with students. He also includes military equipment such as Humvees.

This year Scott is coordinating with Specialist First Class Jason R. Schrader of the Army National Guard in Pasco.

Scott is planning a BBQ to be held on the lawn at New Horizons to feed the soldiers. At Wahluke they will be fed in the cafeteria after the ceremony.

"This will give students an opportunity to ask questions," Scott said.

At last check, Schrader was not certain how many soldiers will be participating, but he said he will have at least three speakers. There will also be a video presentation.