Meadowbrook thanks veterans

Students from Meadowbrook Elementary School expressed their appreciation for local veterans and their service to America, and also received a fun history lesson.

The event, quickly becoming an annual tradition, is part of Hand-in-Hand, a slate of programs that link Meadowbrook students with senior citizens from Salisbury Gardens.

Through coordination from people like Donna Derry at Meadowbrook and Pat McBride at Salisbury Gardens, the students and seniors participate in a variety of intergenerational events throughout the year, including a veterans celebration on Nov. 6.

Veterans, many from East Meadow VFW Post No. 2736, displayed war medals, artifacts and newspaper clippings with the children, while also answering their questions.

Students from Pat Mittler’s kindergarten/first grade class presented the veterans on hand with gift bags filled with candy. The veterans on hand were to deliver those gifts to cheer up fellow veterans who are sick or disabled.

While veterans imparted their knowledge this time, the students will return the favor next spring, when they teach seniors how to use various computer programs. Also, in December, students will visit the senior center to sing some holiday tunes.