GRIDLEY/BIGGS, CA (MPG) – Local VFW Chapter 5731 has been busy, visiting elementary schools in both Gridley and Biggs.

These visits typically involve a question-and-answer period where students get to speak to the VFW members and learn a little about history from a living part of it, hearing stories of the veteran’s service to our Nation. In some instances, our retired servicemen even hold a flag raising ceremony for the children to take part in. As a token of appreciation, the VFW members usually hand out small American flags or rulers as gifts to the classes they have had the opportunity to speak to.

Over the last few weeks, Gridley VFW visited Kindergarten classes and multiple classes at Wilson Elementary and Biggs Elementary.

As a result, these retired servicemen received letters of thanks from the various students they spoke with. Drawings adorned the notes and simple, but sweet thanks were shared in statements from very young students like: “Thank you Veterans for protecting our freedom so I can eat a burger in peace,” and, “Thank you for your service to our country and for the flags and for protecting our country so we can be safe at night.”

VFW Member Sergio Gonzalez, who visited the classrooms with his fellow veterans, says, “It warms my heart to know these children and teachers have respect for the flag, and they understand the importance of appreciation for all veterans who have served for the benefit of all. These young people are the future and give me hope that our democracy and way of life is alive and well.”

Commander of Gridley VFW, Ed Kawasaki adds, “We veterans would like to say ‘Thank You’ to the students who took the time to write and tell us that you care for our service to you and our Country. It is very meaningful to those who serve and have served. For those of us in the Armed Services, we never forget why we chose the path that we have and hope that some of you will choose to do the same someday.”