Students give heroes’ welcome to vets
Published: November 9, 2007
Wapping Elementary School student Amanda Poma had a modest request for the guests and veterans gathered in the gymnasium Thursday morning.
Her father, Luis Poma, is leaving after Thanksgiving for a second tour of duty in Iraq. He recently celebrated his birthday, but before he left, Amanda wanted to give her dad a memento.
“Could we all sing “Happy Birthday” for my dad so he will remember it next year?” Amanda asked, noting he will be in Iraq on his next birthday.
Her request was granted when everyone started to sing. Luis thanked his daughter with a kiss before rejoining the veterans in attendance.
Amanda’s gesture was just one part of the annual Wapping Veterans Day ceremony. The gymnasium was decorated in red, white, and blue, and a Wall of Remembrance recognized the past and present service of 660 South Windsor veterans.
Students presented the veterans and gathered dignitaries with a collection of patriotic songs and tributes in appreciation of their service to the country.
Teacher Daria Plummer’s fourth-grade class gave a history of Veterans Day, tracing its origin to the armistice that ended World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. The students took turns explaining the holiday’s importance and symbolism, mixing in musical tributes with their presentation. They also defined patriotism and the liberties shared in a democratic society.
Local and state officials followed the students’ examples with their own interpretations of Veterans Day.
Mayor Matthew Streeter told the assembly that the power to hold elections was granted by the sacrifices of veterans. He said voting is just one of the rights, privileges, and freedoms Americans share.
State Sen. Gary LeBeau, D-East Hartford, told the veterans in attendance that he was humbled by them and happy to take part in the ceremony. State Rep. William Aman, R-South Windsor, congratulated students on their presentation and told them to appreciate that they live in a tolerant society.
Patriotic Commission Chairman Robert Moeller also expressed his appreciation, telling the children that he wished he could “bottle the enthusiasm” they had portrayed.
American Legion Post 133 Past Commander Al Bauer was the last to speak, and instead of taking the podium he invited volunteers to stand by veterans who went on to serve their communities just as they had their military.
Bauer told students that Veterans Day was a time of joy and thanksgiving. He asked them to carry on qualities of patriotism, outlining the virtues of commitment, caring, and sharing.
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