Byron comes together to recognize the Class of 2020

A lot has been taken away from the Byron High School seniors, but now thanks to the Byron American Legion they have something they can call their own.

The legion, represented by Finance Officer Gordy Bishop and Commander Carl Dewaard, presented Byron High School Principal Malia Schroeder and Superintendent Dr. Joey Page with a tribute to the senior Class of 2020 featuring just over 130 American flags, one for each senior.

Schroeder said this tribute will acknowledge the seniors and show them that the community recognizes their loss.

 “I think it is a fantastic way to visually honor them in a way that’s never been done before. I think it’ll be a great opportunity for them to come out here, take photos, and have something that no one’s ever had before. They’ve had a tough year in regards to things being taken away of no control of their own so this is a great opportunity for them to be recognized,” she said.

She also hopes this special commemoration shows the seniors that the community wants them to have special moments just like they would have in any other year. 

“I hope they think about how people in the community recognize that graduation is a very important time to be remembered and to experience special things,” Schroeder said.

Another positive that she sees coming from this tribute is that it shows the seniors that a community rallies around those who are struggling.

“This is something that the community members did for them and I hope that someday that they can do the same when it’s their turn to do things for the community,” she said.

Schroeder acknowledged the Byron American Legion for all their work creating this tribute.

“Huge thanks to Gordy Bishop, Carl Dewaard and all the Byron American Legion members,” she said. “This is just beautiful and such a great way to have our small town community come together.”