Clarkston Junior High School students celebrated Veterans Day by honoring Takao Kojima of Clarkston, veteran of World War II, and Master Sergeant Lyle B. Black II, Clarkston graduate.
“This is amazing – the first time I’ve been here since graduation,” said Black, Clarkston High School Class of 1997, at the Nov. 11 ceremony. “To see the kids take such pride in doing this is very amazing. It’s one of my biggest honors from my community and school.”
“It’s very nice,” Kojima said. “I didn’t expect such a nice welcome.”
Black,who served a tour of duty in Iraq with the 127th Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard and has earned 18 major awards and decorations, is currently the First Sergeant of the 127th Medical Group at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.
Kojima served in the European Theater, Italian Campaign, with the 442nd Infantry, earning the Sharpshooter award and Army Good Conduct Medal.
Each year, Clarkston Junior High School students honor local veterans with Honor Stones they make, then place in the school’s Jenna Beno Memorial Courtyard.
– Phil Custodio