Our Viewpoint: Honoring veterans

I only made it to one Veterans Day event with it being on Monday, but it was still an endearing day.

Thompson Falls High School put on a lovely assembly with the choir and band. They also served lunch to veterans and their families.

I was impressed with the students who helped serve the veterans their meal. There probably was a bit of coaching from school staff, but they thanked each veteran for their service as they served their meal. More students then came in to sit amongst the veterans during the performances. I heard students again thanking these men and women for their service.

A friend I was standing next to commented about how it's hard to talk to new people. It has to be a bit intimidating for teenagers to sit down next to strangers and share a meal. As a veteran, you might be nervous about having teenagers sit down with you and not say a word.

There were some students who chose to sit in the back at a separate table, but dozens mingled with the veterans, asked them about their service, and again thanked them.

Then, as the veterans introduced themselves, they thanked the school and the students. They talked briefly about their service, and many thanked their families who were at home when they were deployed.

The whole event was full of appreciation from all sides, and it was very heartwarming.

So, to all who have served our country, thank you for your sacrifices. And thank you to the schools and organizations who continue to honor our veterans.

­— Annie Wooden