Why Should We Honor Veterans? What is Patriotism to Me? These are questions we all should ponder. Students at Gess Elementary did just that.
In grades 3, 4, and 5, the students participated in the VFW Youth Essay Program and wrote essays answering the question “Why should we honor veterans?” They wrote in class and some even worked on their essays at home. The answers were as varied as the students writing them, but all expressed an appreciation of the bravery and sacrifice that all veterans make during their military service. Some talked about the families that also sacrifice the time spent away from a dad or mom. Others even shared family stories of those that have given their lives to support our nation.
In our 6th grade, the students participated in the VFW Patriots Pen Competition. Their topic was “What Is Patriotism to Me?” They wrote essays of 300-400 words and were judged on the areas of Knowledge, Theme Development, and Clarity of Ideas.
Again, the answers were as varied as the writers. They lifted up the themes of loved one’s sacrifices, freedom, and acts of patriotism such as voting, honoring veterans, and working through times that are good, and times that are difficult.
Because of Covid-19 we at Gess were not able to serve our annual breakfast to area veterans or honor them at an assembly. However, we did send every essay written to the VFW so they could be shared with as many veterans as possible.
The essays were judged with others from our area by the VFW. Those earning medals at Gess for the Youth Essays were:
3rd Grade:
Mackayla Dollar
Eden Elliot
4th Grade:
Gabby Gower
Trinity Burgess
5th Grade:
Maggie Sands
Asche Scantling
The Patriots Pen essay medalists in 6th Grade were:
Wyatt Gould
Simi Sahota
Simi’s essay went on to the Eastern Washington District competition where she earned 3rd place at districts!
Congratulations to Simi and all the medal winners, and thank you to the VFW who sponsored the writing competition.
At Gess Elementary, we love our Veterans!