Give thanks to vets today

By Tami Althoff

Published: November 11, 2008

NORMAN — No one needs to remind me that today is Veterans Day. In fact, Veterans Day is the one holiday I will never forget — it’s my birthday.

When I was in grade school, I thought I was pretty special. My parents never had to work on my birthday (they were state employees), and sometimes I would even get out of school. Ceremonies were held all over the United States, and the president would make a speech on my birthday.

When I got older, I realized, of course, that it wasn’t me everyone was celebrating. They were celebrating my dad who served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam, my grandpa who served with the Marines in World War II and my late grandfather who served with the Army Air Corps in World War II. They also were celebrating your family members and friends — the men and women who have served and fought for our country.

I don’t remember learning much about Veterans Day in school. I’m sure my parents told me of its importance, the information just got overshadowed by birthday excitement and activities.

I asked a few teachers I know if children today are being taught the importance of honoring those who have served and are serving our country, and they assured me they are.

Each year since 2000, Congress has set aside the week of Veterans Day as National Veterans Awareness Week.

Schools use the week to emphasize programs regarding the contributions veterans have made to our country.

Schools have assemblies honoring veterans and their families, and often veterans speak about their experiences. The students also watch films about Veterans Day and sing patriotic songs.

The teachers told me that while most children might not truly understand the sacrifices our veterans make, they are a little more knowledgeable than we might think.

Some children have parents serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. As one teacher told me, they make the sacrifice along with their parents.

While the students might not understand the impact the military has on their lives, their teachers are doing what they can to teach them to appreciate the service others give to protect their way of life.

That’s a lesson we all need to hear. If you haven’t done so lately, take a minute to thank a veteran for the service he or she has given to our country and for fighting for the freedoms we all enjoy today.

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