Page students had history brought right to them. Teachers made displays about family members who were veterans and served in different times and different branches. Displays included pictures, letters, old uniforms, honors and awards, medals, and even examples of Meals Ready to Eat. Students were also encouraged to bring in their own family history and share stories they knew.
Principal Amy Forman said she got the idea when she was re-organizing the display case in the main entrance of the building. The display tells of the former principal Gerald “Jerry” Page’s time in the Army Air Corps in World War II. Many years later, the elementary school was named for him.
Forman brought in many of her own items to display for her grandfather and great-grandfather who served in World War I and World War II. Her great-grandfather, Charles Lund Sr., was an ambulance driver in World War I and her grandfather Charles Lund II, was an Air Force mechanic.
Throughout the day, classrooms could go through the hallways to look at the many displays and read more about the people who served.
Barry County Sheriff Deputy David Price was the featured veteran for the Page Veterans Day event. Price served eight years in the U.S. Navy before returning home to become a sheriff’s deputy. He talked with many students as they stopped to read about his service.
Several teachers and students shared their family histories so that all students could better understand the importance of Veterans Day. From World War I through present day, the displays honored every branch of service.
At Lee Elementary, three classes of third graders walked to Carveth, led down Main Street by a student waving the American flag. Once inside, students presented facts about the American flag then led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Students continued their program by singing the National Anthem while one student added sign language. They also sang “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”
They ended their visit by recognizing veterans who lived or worked at Carveth Village. After each veteran’s name was called, students stood at attention and offered “We Salute.” Veterans happily accepted a personal drawing using the uniforms of the branch they served in and signatures from students.
“This is going to go right up on my wall,” said one veteran after receiving her drawing.