This Veterans Day, Mercer Elementary went above and beyond to honor the service men and women who have protected our nation. Each year, the school proudly displays a sea of flags on the front lawn in honor of the veterans in their community, particularly focusing on the family members of their students who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The tradition is a heartfelt tribute to those who have made incredible sacrifices for the country, and the entire school community, affectionately known as the "Pirates," takes great pride in participating. Flags line the yard, each one representing a family member of a student who has served or is still serving in the military. This year there were over 100 flags commemorating the service and sacrifice of our families.
"Our students are so proud of their family members in the Armed Forces, and this is just one small way for us to express our gratitude for their service," said Dr Simpson. "Every year, we get to see more flags go up, and it's a powerful reminder of the sacrifices our veterans and active service members make to protect our freedom."
The school also uses the display as an opportunity to educate students about the importance of Veterans Day. Teachers incorporate lessons into their curriculum, sharing stories of local heroes, the history of the Armed Forces, and the significance of the holiday. Many students have personal connections to the flags they see in the yard, with parents, grandparents, and even older siblings who have served in various branches of the military.
"This tradition means so much to me," said Jayson, a 4th Grade student at the school. It makes me proud to be part of such a supportive community."
As part of the Veterans Day observance, the school hosted a brief ceremony where students and staff gathered to pay their respects.
The Pirates' dedication to honoring our veterans is not only a display of patriotism but also a reminder of the importance of unity, gratitude, and community. The flags will remain in place throughout the week, serving as a lasting tribute to the courage and dedication of the U.S. Armed Forces.
In the words of one student: "Our Pirates are proud to honor our veterans, and we are grateful for all they've done for our country."