St. Edmund Elementary fourth-and fifth-graders honored and recognized their family and friends who served our country, veterans, during an appreciation reception, held Nov. 15 at the KC Hall.
Under the direction of their teachers, Denise LeBouef and Michelle LeJeune some 20 to 25 veterans were honored by the elementary school students.
As a school requirement fourth graders were asked to participate in the annual VFW Post 8971 sponsored Americanism contest. Fourth graders were asked to present a Drawing of a Historical Event; and fifth graders were asked to write a 300-word essay, “How I Honor Veterans.” During the ceremony, some students read their essays to the veterans.
Students also sang Lee Greenwood’s song, “God Bless The USA.”
Students also hand crafted Thank You cards, made out of construction paper and presented cards and small flags to the veterans.
Veterans were invited to introduce themselves and speak of their rank and service. Mac Atteberry, served as an Air Force pilot in Vietnam War from 1971-1972. Harry B. Fruge served in U.S. Army in 1965 for three years.
Both veterans shared one thing in common, “Freedom Is Not Free.” Fruge added, “Freedom cost. It cost lives and broken families’ lives.”
Both veterans added, “Proud to have served, and would do it again.”
Fruge, added, “My belief in God saved and helped me through, and I have always reflected that life is fragile.”