B-V Students Pay Tribute to Veterans

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“I Pledge allegiance to the flag…” More powerful words could not have been spoken in the early morning sunlight at Buchanan-Verplanck Elementary School as students and staffed gathered to pay tribute to our nation’s veterans on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011.

This Friday will mark the 93^rd anniversary of the end of World War I and our nation’s 92^nd observance of Veterans Day.  To mark this solemn occasion, students at B-V were joined by members of the Armed Services as they remembered the sacrifices so many young men and women have made throughout history to ensure their freedoms and preserve our way of life.

With students looking on, Russ Harrison, a retired Navy Seabee, spoke about the significance of Veterans Day, “We observe Veterans Day on an anniversary, not of a great battle or of the beginning of a war, but of a day when war ended and our nation was again at peace.” 

“It is important these children understand the sacrifices people have made throughout history for our country.  It is a part of our history, their history,” remarked Harrison.  “In the last year alone, I’ve lost seven friends.  There are fewer World War II vets each year and I want to ensure our memory is sustained for future generations.”

As Russ spoke, the students at B-V stood in complete silence. Never knowing a world at peace, these students understood the significance of his words. Since they were born our nation has been engaged in conflict across the globe, fighting for freedom and preserving American ideals in the farthest corners of the world.

The B-V Citizens of the Month presented each member of the Armed Services present with a book of “Wordles” about what it means to be a Veteran. The handmade books, on red, white and blue construction paper, were a unique way for the students at B-V to express their appreciation and admiration to these American heroes.

After a moment of silence to remember the fallen soldiers of wars past, students looked on as the flag was unfurled and hoisted up the flag pole. As the morning sun caught the flag, students, staff and Veteran’s alike recited the Pledge of Allegiance with one voice.  The breezeway echoed with their voices in haunting unison, “…one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”