LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The pomp and circumstance of a military celebration is like no other because it bears the weight of a free nation. 

During a Veterans Day celebration at Butler High School, a crowd not only applauded the service of veterans and those on active duty but also JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) service cadets like David Fultz will provide his country.

“We want to give back to them as they served for us,” Fultz told Spectrum News 1. Fultz is a Butler senior and JROTC cadet with a career in the Army National Guard on the horizon.

“I’m kind of looking at safety zones, where they go out, like severe weather,” Fultz said.

Fultz, like many young Americans entering military service, is inspired by family members who served before him.

“I have an uncle who served in the Air Force. I have an aunt who served in the Army. I have another who served in the Navy,” Fultz listed.

On Veterans Day, Fultz and his fellow cadets helped drivers park ahead of a military celebration.

Twenty yards away from Fultz, London Young worked his post.

Young wants to follow in his father’s footsteps.

“He is a veteran, and he’s taught me leadership. He’s taught me how to be independent for myself and how I can be dependent for others,” Young said.

Both young men have seen first-hand the impact military service can have on a person.

“Have a little more confidence, I can improve in leadership,” Fultz said.

In the years to come, cadets like Fultz and Young will likely be the guests of honor at a Veterans Day ceremony like the one hosted at Butler High School.

“Here at Butler Traditional High School, we are blessed with opportunities to meet our wonderful veterans,” a young speaker addressed the audience.

Their willingness to serve isn’t in exchange for any reward or medal it’s calling to be a part of something bigger than themselves. The pomp and circumstance is how a grateful nation says thank you.