My great-niece Joy is in the second grade. A few weeks ago I got a letter from her inviting me to a veterans ceremony at her school today.
I showed up at the appointed time and I was amazed by the program they'd put together to honor local veterans.
Towards the end of the program, they asked all veterans to come front and be recognized.
All the kids who had invited veterans made medals from construction paper and wrote notes on the back.
When Joy came up, hung the medal she'd made around my neck and stood in front of me, I choked up. I leaned over and kissed her on the top of her head. She giggled.
The gesture had the same effect on the veterans standing on either side of me.
Her dad snapped a picture of her sitting in my lap. A moment before he snapped the picture, I goosed her ribs. She loves it when I do that.
Now that is a truly lovely gesture. Not surprised you chocked up a little.
ReplyDeleteI suspect that medal is going to be saved in a special place!
ReplyDeleteNow there's a service award that goes beyond them all.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your service. I think it's very important to honor our veterans. You and others are our heroes that protect and keep our country free.I'm thinking this is one medal you will treasure always!
ReplyDeleteAmazing school! I like it when a school, principal, teacher and staff think of our Country and those who served. And of course,Thank you for your service Rick, we have a great country, the best
ReplyDeleteSherry & jack!
She's a cutie. It is good that they are observing Veterans' Day. I really like the idea of the handmade medals.
ReplyDeleteHow perfect, sweet, respectful and humbling
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way for children to honor veterans. Every schools should do this.
ReplyDeleteA great picture.
Hugs, Julia
Great photo. Hope you felt honored. My daughter is a 5th grade teacher. She started a Veteran's day celebration at her school years ago. Everyone loves it. She said she wants kids to know what a Vet truly was. Some were surprised that they had vets in their own families. Blessings and tahnk you for your service. xoxo, Susie
ReplyDeleteYikes, I mean thank you.
ReplyDelete