Every year at school we have a Memorial Day Remembrance. It’s important for children, well…for everybody. Making it meaningful for young children is not easy, but Retired Master Sergeant Michael Kennedy does a remarkable job.
He asks children, “Who likes decorations?” Of course all hands go up. Then he tells children how Memorial Day used to be Decoration Day, and poppies were used to decorate the graves and markers of fallen soldiers. He talks about serving our country and thanking veterans.
The Aqua Roomers held the American flag and sang “God Bless America.” The kindergarteners sang “God Bless the USA”, aka “Proud to Be an American.” Wonderful doesn’t even come close.
Then Michael helped children plant flags in our Memory Garden.
A special guest played taps, and a veteran jumped up and saluted. It was a moment I’ll never forget.
That afternoon I showed children Peter Spier’s book, The Star-Spangled Banner.
We spent time looking at the page with graves and poppies. There were lots of questions. That was a good thing.
Never forget. Thank a veteran.
Jennie
A Teacher's Reflections 
Children don’t forget these experiences. Nice job. The garden looks amazing.
Thanks so much, Steve.
You do such a wonderful job with this very important subject, Jennie. Kudos to you!
Many thanks, Dan.
Brava, Jennie! Children should be brought up understanding what Memorial Day is all about.
I think so, too. Thank you, Liz.
You’re welcome, Jennie.
A lovely tribute to your veterans, Jennie
Thank you, Robbie.
Everyone should know the history, and remember those who were lost, and why. We have our Remembrance Day in November, much the same thing.
Best wishes, Pete.
Yes, regardless of what country you are from, everyone should know the history and remember. Best to you, Pete.
Good work, Jennie, impressing on children how important it is to be patriotic and to appreciate those who protect us.
Thank you, Anneli. 🇺🇸
So important, dear Jennie. Never forget. Yes, indeed. ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Vicki. 🇺🇸
A wonderful post, Jennie. Thank you.
Many thanks, John. 🇺🇸
😀
So nice of the Master Sergeant to come and see the children, a special day for all.
Yes, and yes!! Best to you, FR.
Thank you, my friend, for all that you do to respect our veterans and help children understand by inviting these special guests.
You are very welcome Pete, and I can’t imagine not doing this for children. The Retired Master Sergeant is the best and really understands children. When Jack is older, I’ll tell you the best patriotic books to read to him. 🇺🇸
Great and a profound post Jennie. Thanks a lot 🙏
Many thanks, Kamal!
Always welcome dear Jennie ❤️
Thank you, Kamal!
From poppies and flags and the special Master Sargeant Michael’s Kennedy’s words to the children, thanks for sharing this, Jennie. And I really like Peter Spier’s illustrations, too. All of it makes me feel thankful.
Thank you for your lovely comment!
So wonderful you do this celebration with the kiddies every year. So important. 🥰
Thanks, Debby. I feel the same way!
Always welcome Jennie ❤️
Thank you, Kamal!
❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Kamal!
This will stay with your children always Jennie and they will have a lasting respect for the day and its meaning. ♥
I hope so, Sally. Many thanks!