March 21, 2003
Albany- Students at Sherwood Acres Elementary students sent balloons into the sky to pay homage to the troops. Fifth grader, Hailey Williams says, "I just want all of them to come home soon."
Veteran, James Bush, was the speaker at the ceremony, and he says kids need to understand what is going on in the world. Bush adds, "It's so important for these kids to understand what these men and women are going through."
Henry Rutledge says he knows exactly what deployed troops are experiencing. He fought in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He adds, "From now on, these kids will understand why they should pay respect to veterans."
Some students, like Quontavious Woolbright, says his dream is to become a Marine. Woolbright adds, "I just want to be a Marine and one day fight for my country."
Several Active duty Marines showed students some of the equipment they use, hoping this close interaction will erase their fears. Gunnery Sergeant Tommy Fair adds, "These kids already know MCLB marines are in the community, and this will help them connect with their role models. It's positive."
Patriotism was the word of the day at Sherwood Acres Elementary. Many kids say the meaning will never be forgotten.
About forty students at Sherwood Acres have family and relatives in the military.
Posted at 4:10PM by Jocelyn.Maner@walb.com
^Gunnery Sergeant Tommy Fair
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