While students and staff throughout the district commemorated Veterans Day in their own special ways, sixth-graders in James O’Hara and Katie Casey’s social studies class at Lynbrook North Middle School received a visit from O’Hara’s father and army veteran, James E. O’Hara on Nov. 9. 

Students listened to his story of being drafted into the army when he was only 19 years old during the Vietnam War. As he spoke about his story, they passed around his photo album and money that he brought back from Vietnam. He also spoke about the importance of giving back. Although he is now retired, he spends his time at a local VA hospital visiting patients. 

During the visit, the class asked questions and learned about how great it feels for military personnel to be acknowledged and thanked by young people. Mr. O’Hara encouraged each of them to write a letter and thank these heroes.  

“Everybody talks about mail,” he told students. “Just to hear from somebody and know that someone cares.” 

While listening to patriotic music, each student created their own card for a veteran in their own life or one who resides at the VA hospital. They wrote personalized notes showing their appreciation and colored their cards to brighten up a veteran’s day. Each student was also asked to thank a veteran during the weekend as their homework assignment.