Students and families eagerly filled Harbor View Elementary School’s multipurpose room, as current and former service members took their seats near the stage. Poppy-themed artwork filled the walls surrounding the stage, and red, white, and blue artwork lined the remaining walls. The patriotic decor was created by students in all grades during Recess Art in honor of Veterans Day. 

It’s been a longstanding tradition at the school to host an assembly and creative writing contest to celebrate the nation’s veterans. Among this year’s honorees were Principal Randy Lempert’s father, Ron Lempert; Harbor View second-grade teacher Chris Bennett; Brant Gresham, former F/A-18 pilot with the U.S. Navy and father of three Harbor View students; plus students’ family members and members of the community.  

“All of the students collaborated for this special event, from the decorations to the writing contest to what they learned researching the branches of the military. It’s amazing all that they learn, but it’s also a great way to give something back to the community,” said Lempert.

After students from first through fifth grade presented brief descriptions of the Coast Guard, Space Force, Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, sixth-grader Dea Deliu recited her winning essay on “What Does Veterans Day Mean to You?” She spoke movingly about how those who join the military are called to serve their country and the courage they exhibit despite their fears. 

In addition to Deliu, sixth-grader Henry Storm and fifth-grader Daxton Rayner were presented gift certificates for an F/A-18 Fighter Pilot Experience at Flight Deck in Anaheim for their winning work.

“The greatest lesson the students get from the writing contest and the assembly is that there are so many ways to serve, to make the world a better place, and we are grateful to our veterans for helping our students learn that,” said Kate Gresham, president of the Harbor View Parent Family Organization.

The veterans in attendance spoke about their time in military service before Brant Gresham offered the students a lesson — and an impromptu quiz — about what life is like aboard an aircraft carrier. Many students were surprised to learn the ships have their own post offices and movie theaters. 

The Harbor View Choir sang “Grand Old Flag” and “Thank You, Soldiers” before music teacher Remy Carpino led the entire student population in performing “God Bless America.”

To end the event, parent and emcee Lindsay Baumhefner spoke about the candy drive the week prior, in which leftover Halloween candy was collected to be sent to troops serving overseas. Students wrote notes to service members that were included with the candy. Last year, 15 boxes were sent to American troops around the globe. In appreciation of their efforts, the Marines and Sailors of Marine Special Operations Company Iraq sent a certificate and an American flag that flew over their base in honor of Harbor View Elementary.  

“It’s so special and a connection that comes back to the students. They can see how even a small act of kindness, such as writing a note and sharing candy, makes a difference for someone,” Gresham said. “The students learn there’s a value in service and making the world a brighter place.”