Social studies students in Mr. Silknitter's class recently researched their own families. The research and follow up work culminated with a ceremony to honor family members who served in the U.S. military. The ceremony to honor those vets occurred on November 11, 1998 - Veterans Day. The program was attended by family members, including twenty-six veterans who were specially honored with a framed certificate and a small American flag by the student to whom each was related.

Students identified veterans in their families which dated back to the Revolutionary War and as current as serving in the military today. During the ceremony each student read off the names of their family veterans, the military branch, and sometimes rank and job performed. The name list numbered over 300 veterans. The students also set up a display of family mementos which included pictures, letters and awards such as the bronze star and purple heart. A special thank you to Mr. Silknitter and his class for remembering all those who have served the United States so bravely.

Some thoughts from the students participating in the ceremony:

"You made America a better place to live." Chris "Today is a very special day because we remember those who made the world a better place to live. Thank you all and will never forget you." Denise

"Thank you veterans for making the world a better place!"
Magnus

"Thank you for helping our country, thank you for fighting for our freedom, thank you for winning battles and being brave. Thank you."
Marianne

"I thought our Veterans Day ceremony was a huge success. I think it made our relatives feel good. It also made me feel good to participate. It helped me to recognize those who fight for our freedom. Our ceremony was great! I hope I get to do something like that again."
Emily

"The Veterans Day ceremony was held on November 11, 1998 at Hillendale Elementary School. My grandfather attended and received a certificate. I enjoyed the ceremony because it allowed me to learn about the sacrifice that my grandfather made for me. I liked the memory table and the food because we could talk about the ceremony with the people who came. It was a great day and everyone enjoyed themselves. My grandparents said it was very well done and they were so glad they came."
Hillary

 

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