TORRINGTON – Thursday was not a typical early morning at Lincoln Elementary in Torrington. Of course, the swarms of youngsters began piling into the school as usual with what was sure to be another day of reading, writing and arithmetic.

However, this particular morning proved to be special, as one could see the front lobby filled with parents and grandparents waiting for something particular.

The morning was dedicated to the acknowledgement and honor of Torrington’s Veterans, who had been personally invited by the children of Lincoln Elementary themselves.

Many of these Veterans were retired, but of course others were still actively serving on behalf of their country and family. 

As dozens of children and their Veteran family members eagerly piled into the school gymnasium, one could feel the importance of what would initially seem like any other school assembly.

This assembly was dedicated to educating the children, and making them innocently aware of the sacrifice that their parents or grandparents had made for the sake of our nation.

With what used to be a standard practice that has seemed to fade out in recent years, the ceremony began with the hundreds gathered in the room in unison saying the Pledge of Allegiance.

With all the children knowing the words by heart and with each having its own important meaning to each family, the words echoed loud and clear throughout the walls of the gymnasium.

Soon thereafter, every Veteran in the room was invited to stand on the stage together in unity, some still in uniform to state who they are, what branch was served in and which child invited them.

After each Veteran was honored, the room erupted with a loud applause of appreciation.

The final moments of the assembly concluded with a sentimental acoustic rendition of our National Anthem, with every man, woman and child standing proudly with their right hands placed firmly over their hearts.

The moment was a profound reminder once again of the sacrifices each Veteran in the room had made for their families, as the children quietly and safely seemed to understand.

As the ceremony concluded, and the students and teachers returned to their everyday classroom commencements, each parent showered their own child with hugs and kisses, a quiet testimony of that very sacrifice.

While returning to her classroom, student Avery Back was asked of how she felt about her grandfather serving honorably in the U.S. Military.

With a shy giggle, not quite sure of how to answer, Avery simply replied, “My Grandpa saved our country.”