On Wednesday, November 10, Judge Lockemy enlightened third grade students as to the meaning and the reason for Veterans Day celebration. Students were spellbound as he produced numerous props from his suitcase to share with students. The point he made was veterans are regular people in various careers that join the military to serve their country in whatever capacity is needed to keep America free and maintain her democracy. We owe deep gratitude to Veterans.
The third grade students have read a book, America’s White Table, and set up a display at the entrance of the school. The table honors the men and women who serve in America’s Armed Forces, especially those missing in action (MIA) and those held prisoner of war (POW). An empty chair represents the missing soldiers who are no longer here. A small table represents one soldier’s lonely battle against many. It is covered with a white cloth to honor a soldier’s pure heart when he answers his country’s call to duty. A black napkin represents the sorrow of captivity and the turned over glass is for the meal that will not be eaten. A lemon slice and grains of salt on a plate are used to show a captive soldier’s bitter fate and the tears of families waiting for loved ones to return. A white candle represents peace and a red rose in a vase tied with a red ribbon is for hope that all our missing soldiers will return someday. A copy of this book was signed by the third grade students and presented to Judge Lockemy.
