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Monday, some students in
The reason for the visit? The vets need a helping hand, but the kids are in need too -- of education.
So one group helped the other and it's a lesson that neither is likely to forget.
Under police escort, the
"Our students bring in things like shampoo, soap, socks -- all types of items just to try and help out," says teacher Lean Clark.
Many of these veterans are without family. No one to supply toiletries. But these 6th graders answered the call.
"And they put them in baskets and it was a competition to see what class could get the most things and whoever did got to come here and deliver it themselves," says sixth-grader Sydney Swillun.
The results: 2,278 items donated. The
reward: the chance to deliver in person and learn what no book can teach.
"And we see it in the papers and stuff, but one-on-one is a pretty good way to go," says Russell Carlin, a Korean War veteran.
Like other vets, Carlin was thankful for supplies and for the chance to teach about war, service, and patriotism.
"They'll believe this more than they would reading it in a book, a pamphlet or something."
"It's amazing to hear their stories and to actually picture what it was really like, and to talk to somebody who was there," adds Swillun. She wasn't the only person moved. Teachers still learn, too.
"These are stories, to me, are something that I hold and cherish in my heart."
Teachers, students and veterans brought together to learn, to share, and to appreciate. Little things, for those who made a big sacrifice.
This project is part of the DARE Program.
Police detective Jason Lacey saw the veterans' needs three years ago, and has rallied sixth grade DARE students to raise more and more items every year.
And it reaches further. Lacey agreed to treat the winning class to a soda during Tuesday's DARE session. And when he went to buy the drinks, Summer Fresh store paid for them.
