Graham Jaehnig/Daily Mining Gazette Houghton High School Junior ROTC’s Flag Detail personnel conducted a flag-raising ceremony Saturday at the HHS Alumni Association Military Alumni Appreciation ceremony.

HOUGHTON – The Houghton High School Alumni Association conducted a Military Alumni Appreciation ceremony at the Houghton High School Saturday. The ceremony was held in cooperation with the Houghton High School JROTC and school staff.

Air Force Lt. Col. Mark K. Smith (Ret.), president of the Alumni Association, said the event, conducted on Armed Forces Day May 16, was in recognition of Veterans Appreciation Month. “This is kind of a first for the Alumni Association,” Smith said, “just to honor our vets, especially our alumni vets.”

The ceremony began with introductory remarks by Smith. “The HHSA, along with the HHS JROTC, and school staff, would like to present today’s event with a moment of reflection,” he said, “a moment to pause and remember that the freedoms we often take for granted were earned through the service of extraordinary men and women who answered a call far greater than themselves.”

They (veterans) are owed more than gratitude, said Smith. They are owed the respect of the people, their support, and the promise to never forget the sacrifices they made. “I would be remiss if I didn’t recognize the unsung heroes,” he said, “the families who sacrifices so much, as well.”

Smith’s Remarks were followed by a flag raising ceremony conducted by JROTC personnel.

Smith, a Houghton native, retired from the U.S. Air force in 2003. A 1978 graduate of Houghton High School, he received his commission in 1982 after graduating from the United States Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering and later earned his MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Smith has more than 5,000 hours of flight time and his awards include four Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Medals, the Aerial Achievement Medal, three Air Force Commendation Medals, two Navy/Marine Corp Commendation Medals, and several other individual, unit, and campaign decorations.

He currently serves on the Omega House Board of Directors, Chassell School Board, Chassell Lions Club, Chassell VFW, President of the HHS Alumni Association, and the Junior Achievement of the U.P. Advisory Board.