Hello, Cadet Nation!

Veterans Day is today, November 11. Connally ISD has a rich military connection, as evidenced by our Cadet mascot and our Air Force JROTC program. Our schools employ many veterans, and a number of our graduates have gone on to serve our country.

There is an article by Sarah Miller that describes the history of the James Connally Air Force Base, once located where TSTC is. Miller tells us that Col. James T. Connally was "Waco native killed during a bomb raid in World War II over Japan when his aircraft was hit by artillery and exploded." Shortly after the air force base was named to memorialize him, Lakeview and Elm Mott school districts consolidated into one district. The name Connally seemed fitting, and thus Connally ISD and the Connally Cadets were created.

From the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:

Veterans Day is always observed officially on November 11, regardless of the day of the week on which it falls. The Veterans Day National Ceremony, like most ceremonies around the nation, is held on Veterans Day itself. However, when Veterans Day falls on a weekday, many communities choose to hold Veterans Day parades or other celebrations on the weekend before or after November 11 so that more people can participate.

What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?

Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military – in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served – not only those who died – have sacrificed and done their duty.

From Wounded Warrior Project:

How to Make Veterans Day for Kids Memorable

Veterans Day, observed on November 11, holds a special place in the hearts of citizens around the United States. It's a day when we come together to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have selflessly served in our armed forces, protecting our freedoms and way of life.

While adults often understand the importance of this day, it's equally essential to pass on these values and sentiments to our younger generation. Teaching kids about Veterans Day goes beyond the historical facts; it's about instilling in them the values of patriotism, empathy, and gratitude.

Here are creative Veterans Day activities for kids and hands-on learning experiences that will help make this day meaningful and memorable.

Veterans Day Activities for Kids

Teaching kids about Veterans Day is a meaningful way to instill values of gratitude and patriotism from an early age. Here are several effective Veterans Day activities for kids and teens:

1. Storytelling: Share age-appropriate stories, books, and articles about veterans' experiences, helping children empathize and understand the importance of their service.

2. Writing: Encourage kids to express their gratitude through writing by offering these Wounded Warrior Project Veterans Day essay and poem prompts. These Veterans Day activities for middle school students help reflect on the sacrifices of veterans and the importance of their service.

3. Documentaries and Videos: Show educational documentaries or short videos that showcase the history and impact of Veterans Day and highlight stories of individual veterans.

4. Flag Etiquette: Teach kids about the proper handling and display of the American flag, emphasizing the respect it deserves.

Veterans Day Crafts

Engaging in creative activities is an excellent way to commemorate Veterans Day and express appreciation. Here are some Veterans Day craft ideas for kids to explore:

1. Coloring Pages for Veterans Day: Break out your favorite crayons and markers and fill in these Veterans Day coloring pages. Once finished, use the coloring sheets to decorate your classroom or bulletin board!

2. Thank You Cards: Have students design and write heartfelt thank you cards expressing gratitude to veterans for their service.

3. Flag Creations: Guide kids in making miniature flags or other flag-related crafts using various materials from around the classroom or at home. You could use strawberries and blueberries, clippings from magazines or newspapers, or whatever you’d like!

4. Military Medals: Design and craft paper medals that recognize different aspects of military service, such as bravery and dedication.

5. Service Member Portraits: Have children draw or paint portraits of veterans they know or admire, celebrating their contributions.