Pleasant Valley Elementary Honors Local Veterans
The flag atop Pleasant Valley Elementary School in Kresgeville flew strong to welcome Veterans Friday morning.
Inside the cafeteria, breakfast was served to over 100 Veterans and their loved ones while students and staff began lining the halls for a parade.
"The kids are taking pride, they're making decorations, working on craft projects, and learning about the importance of our military and what our Veterans do for us," says Joan Bumbulsky.
Joan Bumbulsky, one of the organizers, says the elementary school takes pride in educating students to understand sacrifices made.
"It is so important that children know the sacrifices Veterans make to keep our land free. Two of my sons served in the military; one as a Marine and one in the Air Force, so it holds a special place in my heart," Bumbulsky explained.
Military personnel like Joe Vallant, a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps, was invited by his nephews. Vallant feels the event is a great way for students to gain first-hand understanding.
"They can see how many people around them they know and how many of their families have stood up to help the country, give some possible career paths, learn what they are interested in, and start letting them ask the questions," Cpl. Vallant shared.
Flags as far as the eye could see waved as breakfast ended. Veterans and their loved ones began parading around the school.
Students and staff lining up in the hallways thanked them for their service as they made a loop and headed to the gymnasium for a special presentation.
Building Principal Roger Pomposello dressed as Uncle Sam to kick off the Pledge of Allegiance and singing patriotic songs.
Geroge Fuentes was filled with pride as his grandkids sang for him.
"My granddaughter was singing, my grandson was singing, it was just a good feeling," Fuentes said.
Fuentes hopes the message of the day resonates with the students throughout their lifetimes.
"We should never forget where we come from, and all the sacrifices Veterans made for this country. Nothing is free in this world, a lot of sacrifices were made," Fuentes explained.
The school says they hope to see the program continue to grow each year.
