A Veterans Day program with Veterans and Students

This past week we celebrated Veterans Day. It is a special day every year on November 11, where we remember the sacrifices men and women in the United States Armed Forces have given for our freedom.

Not only have these members of the military risked their lives for us, but they have also sacrificed and given up time away from their family. They have not been able to attend special occasions and events like birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and holidays. Some have even missed the birth of their child. 

I was happy to see so many different companies and organizations thanking our veterans this year with discounts on services and products. It's important we don't forget what these men and women have done for us and our children.

As a mom of two young girls, I want my daughters to understand and know why we celebrate Veterans Day. We have several living veterans in our family including both of their grandpas and one of their uncles. What has also helped the girls understand Veterans Day is the special program their school has every year in conjunction with the local VFW Post 9272.

The ceremony is for students and their families and includes members of the study body along with members of the VFW. The ceremony started with the presentation of colors by the VFW followed by the pledge of allegiance and patriotic songs sung by the fourth and fifth grade chorus. Both of my daughters have been a part of the chorus and enjoy being involved in the program.

In between the songs, students read essays about what Veterans Day meant to them and several students asked the members of  the VFW questions about their service. Some of the questions included what they liked most about serving and what they liked least.

 

At the end of the program one of the veterans played 'Taps' on the trumpet in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and lost their life.

It was very moving and emotional for those in the audience.

After the ceremony, several students gave thank you cards they had made in class to veterans in the audience. I know this really meant a lot. My dad, who is a veteran, was at the ceremony and given cards. It was the first time he was ever given a thank you card and it really touched him.

I think having this ceremony for the students really has an impact on them. They realize how important our veterans are and why we need to recognize them. Thank you again to all our veterans!