Baker School dedicates freedom shrine

BAKER — Baker School’s JROTC unveiled a new patriotic display this week honoring military and first responders.

The freedom shrine was dedicated at a May 17 ceremony at the school. The shrine consists of seven wall-mounted panels displaying a collage of photos from each branch of the military, as well as panels for law enforcement and firefighters.

Each panel also has historical documents displayed over the photos. The documents run in roughly chronological order along the length of the shrine, starting with the Mayflower compact and ending with Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech, telling the story of American history throughout. Important historical documents like the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, and the Gettysburg Address are also present.

The Exchange Club of Crestview, which is no longer in operation, helped coordinate the project. Exchange Clubs across the country facilitate freedom shrines in schools and supply the historical documents for the displays.

Mayor Cadle, who served as President of the Crestview Exchange Club, played a key role in making the freedom shrine a reality.

“One of the main targets that we had for our projects was Americanism, and the shrine was the biggest gift that we could give,” Cadle said. “It was quite evident where we felt the freedom shrine would get the best attention and the greatest respect (at Baker School). We’re extremely proud of this.”

JROTC officers raised $1,200 by calling potential donors and taking contributions. Battalion Executive Officer Peyton Horton led the project, collecting photos from each military branch and first responders, and putting together the collages.

The freedom shrine fulfilled a JROTC requirement that students put together a yearly project that benefits the community in some way.

“The shrine is a constant reminder of the fundamental principles upon which this great nation was founded,” Baker Principal Mike Martello said. “The words of the documents echo our great American history, and the best thing we can derive from history is the enthusiasm it raises in us.”

Martello gave a dedication speech before the unveiling of the shrine, speaking about the reminder of the sacrifices Americans have made and continue to make to secure freedom.

“We are here today to emphasize the message of encouragement these documents hold for our students, our faculty and the entire Baker community.”