
Hartford Courant

2006 Veterans' Day Essays

The Hartford Courant congratulates the students who participated in the 2006 Annual Veterans Day Poster/Essay Contest. The contest, sponsored in partnership with the CT Veterans Day Parade Committee, invites 6th, 7th and 8th graders in Greater Hartford to convey, in words and pictures, what it means to be a military veteran.

2006 Winners
What It Means To Be A Veteran
Title: A Soldier Inside
Essay by Becky Baierwick, Grade 6
Poster by Kira Melville, Grade 6
Tarriffville Elementary School

You might see them in the grocery store, looking like just an ordinary person, shopping in the canned foods isle. You may see them walking their dog out on the bike path, blending in with the rest of the world.

What you don't see is what is inside them- the soul, the heart, of a veteran.If you look in the dictionary, you'll find that the definition for 'veteran' is along the lines of, '(of soldiers) having had the service or experience of warfare'. A war is not just a battle between countries, but a war within lives as well. In other words, a veteran is a past soldier. If we honor the veterans, we're honoring the soldiers, too.

Not everyone can be- or is- a soldier, but the U.S.A still does our best to serve our country any way we can. Being a soldier is not all about facing mayhem and coercion. A soldier is so, so much more than that.

Being a soldier means unselfishness: being willing to sacrifice yourself for others. A soldier is openhearted enough to the point where their own pain and life is less important than someone else's. Just about any member of the armed forces must have this trait.To take this chance, a soldier must be brave. They tear away from the comforts of home and are willing to take what comes next. You'll find courage in any veteran, and the courage it takes to stand up for what's right even if it means jeopardizing their lives in the process. The soldiers challenged the people who threatened their existence and thousands of others'. They picked up the urge to do something and used it, like a coat of armor, to do what was right.

Last but certaintly not least, a soldier has endurance. In war, there are many things to endure- the pain of homesickness, perhaps an actual pain and the will to keep on going no matter how hard your heart pulls. The list goes on and on. Soldiers even need to find persistence to be brave and generous. With only their mind to propel them, their heart must nearly be stronger than their muscles, for only a mind of a soldier can endure the game of tug-a-war between your conscience and body.

A veteran can be many things: a mother, a father, a grocery-shopper, a dog-walker. But even though their wars may be over, veterans are still soldiers to the heart.

2006 Runner-up
What It Means To Be A Veteran
Title: Veteran's Day
By Blake Apatow, Grade 6
Andover Elementary School

Many of the accomplishments of past wars are credited to some of the most courageous and respected people of this nation. They are all brought together on the unforgettable November 11th, every year. This day is called Veterans Day where our war heroes are praised for their dedication to the United States of America. The reimbursements necessary to repay these peoples contributions would be immeasurable. Instead, the people of the U.S. pay their respects to the countless men and women who have served our country, preserving life as we know it.

The title "Veteran's Day" is not significant in the minds of modem citizens. To many it is merely a day off from work or school. They know it as a day to sleep in late or procrastinate from homework. The people that have these feeling are simply naive and undereducated. The thought of being unappreciated after risking your life and suffering the life long repercussions of war disgusts me. Few people truly realize the importance and significance of this day of celebration and devotion. I am one of the few who understand the impact that these Veterans have had on my life in addition to that of every single American citizen. Veteran's Day represents justice, humanity and the consequence to live life as we do. However, there are people that cannot see that their whole lives would be greatly altered without the blood, sweat and tears that these brave men and women have put into preserving our nation. For example, the freedom that they have given us allows people to live life under Constitutional protection with a structured government to serve the people and protect society. Every current American citizen has benefited from those who fought in World War I, and II in addition to several other conflicts.

There are people scattered across the country who will not ever be able to move again. They will never be able to race a grandchild, dance at their daughter's wedding or frolic across the warm summer beaches. I cannot imagine not being able to take walks with my family or get a drink from the refrigerator. My life would be destroyed. The people who fought in the wars deserve all of the glory that their bravery and patriotism has proved. People take simple things like walking for granted. To the war Veterans simply walking to the bathroom would be a monumental event. The sacrifices that have been made, and the consequences that have been faced by each brave soul are not rightfully recognized by society. That is why I feel the need to express my inner thoughts and feelings; to help inform the people of the significance of Veterans Day.

On their way to where ever the destination may be, I wonder what was running through their minds. Was it, "Man, I am going to spend the rest of my life only moving my arms or hopping with one leg," or was it, "I cannot wait to win this war so that I can return home and raise a family. This is a great chance for adventure!" How could the people entering war ever prepare for such sacrifices? It seems to me that they must have been too determined and ecstatic to make the future a better place. Our most treasured values of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are taken with thanks to the brave, exemplar men and women who died in war for our country.

2006 Runner-up:
What It Means To Be A Veteran
Title: What A Veteran Means To Me
By Valerie Stickles, Grade 8
Captain Nathan Hale Middle School in Coventry

Enlisted in the army,
Now there's no turning back.
A tear rolls down his cheek
As he begins to pack.
He will defend his country,
It's what he knows is right.
He doesn't want to leave his wife.
He holds her, oh so tight.
He places a gentle kiss
On his soon to be baby girl.
"I promise I'll try to be here
When you enter the world."
He heads off to the Middle East.
Iraq is where he'll be.
He makes a friend who loses his life.
He was killed by an IED.
The war just never seems to end.
Weeks and months pass by.
He's still alive, but there were times
He thought that he would die.
He often loses hope,
Danger follows wherever you roam,
The thing that keeps him going:
His two girls waiting back at home.
Soldiers come and go,
Many don't survive.
Every night, he kneels and prays.
He's so blessed to be alive.
One day he was on patrol,
Thought he was safe from harm.
All of a sudden, there was a bang
He fell, clutching his arm.
He let out a loud cry.
His whole arm had been lost,
Now he knew that he was through,
He paid the ultimate cost.
He went back home to his family,
And laid eyes on his 5 month old.
He'd never be able to hold her.
Just give her his heart of gold.
A veteran risks everything
And also pays that fee.
A veteran goes against all odds
To protect you and me.
Veterans are so special
To our great country.
Veterans are my idol,
That's what a veteran means to me.

What It Means To Be A Veteran
Title: What is a Veteran?
By Cailin McHugh-Roor, Grade 6
Canton Intermediate School

Well, if you look it up in Webster's dictionary, 9th edition, it'll say, and I quote, 1. An old soldier of long experience; 2. A former member of the armed forces. But ask anyone and it's most likely they will tell you that a veteran is something more. Being in the armed forces isn't just something where you go shoot people, as many young children may think. In my opinion, it takes courage and strength of character just to sign up, knowing you may never return.

If there were no veterans we would not be where we are today. In colonial times, England would rule us, the Civil War wouldn't have been possible, and segregation and slavery would still have thrived. Around the time when World War I and World War II occurred, the Germans could've won. Without the Iraqi war, Saddam Hussain would still be in power. Yes, if everyone had chosen not to join the army, the world would have taken a turn, or two, for the worst.

A veteran is someone who is willing to give their life for their country, whether it's for their freedom, for their rights, or for something else. A veteran is someone who was formally in the armed forces and deserves commemoration and remembrance.

What It Means To Be A Veteran
By Brendan Butler, Grade 6
Charles Wright Elementary School in Wethersfield

The dictionary says to be a veteran is to have a lot of experience in some kind of work. To be a veteran of the military means you have served in the armed forces of the country. When you are in the military you might have to y> to war and might get hurt or killed. My dad told me a lot about the veterans in our family. My uncle Bill, my uncle Phil, and my uncle David served in the military. My uncle Bill served in the Strategic Air Command of Air U.S. Air Force. His job was to supply the B-52 bombers that carried atomic bombs. We were in what my dad calls a cold war with Russia and he was stationed just across from Russia in Alaska. My dad says a cold war is when there's no shooting but everyone is ready and watching each other. Uncle Dave and Uncle Phil served in the Army. My uncle David was a paratrooper with the 82 Airborne Division. He served in Vietnam and earned the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. My Uncle Phil was a captain with the 1st Cavalry. He commanded artillery. He also served in Vietnam and earned the Purple Heart. He stayed in the Army and retired as a colonel. My dad was too young for the war and went to college.My uncle Dave and my uncle Phil don't like to talk about the war. They lost a lot of friends and saw a lot of horrible things. My uncle Phil is the Director of Veteran's Affairs for the State of South Carolina. He has to represent the Governor at the funerals of soldiers killed in Iraq and Afganistan. He told me he feels this is an honor but it makes him very sad. He tells the families how much we appreciate what the soldiers did.Not every soldier goes to war but everyone serves to make us safer. Some people do not like that we are free and want to take that away from us. The soldiers who become veterans have served to keep us free. Veterans are special. We should remember them and say thanks and take care of them.

What It Means To Be a Veteran
By Kevin Lamo, Grade 6
Charles Wright Elementary School, Wethersfield

In my opinion, to be a veteran you have to be very brave and courageous. All the veterans who have fought in recent and past wars were not only fighting for pride, but to make our lives better and safer. These people were, and some still are, risking their lives to protect us. Without these dedicated soldiers the United States of America might not be a free and independent country. Even if you don't realize it, you might not be here if it weren't for veterans. These soldiers risked their lives every time they fired a gun, took a breath and stepped out onto that battlefield. The men and women of the military continuously fought for our freedom and independence. I consider the men and women of the military to be members of my family because they're always trying to help my family and me. I still don't see how the current and former soldiers could go out and fight knowing that they could be taking their last breath. These men and women went months or maybe even years without knowing what was in store for them the next day. It doesn't matter how long they were deployed overseas, those soldiers had the courage and bravery to fight and defend us. To become a soldier you had to devote years of your life to training and then wait for the call of deployment. The veterans have to give a lot of credit to their families for supporting them throughout their decision process and accepting whatever decision was made. The soldier's family also had to be brave to go months or maybe years without seeing their relative. I'm sure that it must've been hard for the family members to not know what's happening in the war and then hear about an explosion that killed twenty American .Veterans are part of what makes this country great. In my opinion they have made the greatest impact on helping to make the United States of America a free and independent country. In conclusion everyday life would not be the same without veterans.

What It Means To Be A Veteran
Title: Veterans Day Essay
By Anxhela Coba, Grade 8
Chippens Hill Middle School in Bristol

Being a Veteran means to sacrifice your life everyday for everyone in your community. It means to be a protector for all of us, a massive shield that provides us with confidence and safety. Being a veteran means to risk your life for people you don't even know. I believe that in some ways we all are veterans. We must focus our emotions and feelings to support our veterans. This is a feeling everyone should get at some point in their life. This is a feeling of responsibility and respect for one another. Unfortunately, for our veterans they must make the ultimate sacrifice.

The veterans that we honor are brave, sometimes young individuals that all have a heartfelt story to tell. That is why we should thank them everyday for being the type of person it takes to be in the military. The death of one veteran is like the death of one country. Happy veterans day to all and to veterans we thank you with all the respect and honor you deserve.

What It Means To Be A Veteran
Title: A Walk through my Grandfather's Past
By Michael "TJ" Williams, Grade 8
East Hartford Middle School

Andrew John Battistone, my grandfather, had been a veteran for 55 years now. A veteran is someone who served in the armed forces in defense of our country to safeguard democracy, freedom, and our American way of life. There are five different kinds of armed forces. There is the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Air Force. Andrew Battistone served for America in the Army. He served in the army from January 1949 to April 1952 during the Korean War, Occupation of Germany after World War II, and the ;old war of Russia. He was a first class Platoon Sergeant of 42 men. He was also a drill sergeant who trained new recruits for combat. He taught them how to work with infantry, artillery, and tank warfare. He belonged to American Legion and Foreign Wars.

I once asked him what it was like in the Army and he responded with," Well it wasn't fun, but it wasn't bad either." I think this is how most veterans felt like when they were in the Army.

A lot of people in this free country don't appreciate our veterans. They burn our American flags, run away from our country, hide from the government when called for duty, and they make many excuses to avoid military duty.

My grandfather was in two or three veteran dedications. I went to one of them and the memorial really made me think about how fortunate I am and how fortunate we all ire in the United States of America. I think that these dedications are meant to remind the 3ublic what it means to live in a free country after many people have passed away to make our country free. So this November 11th ,2006 on Veterans Day, make sure you take some time to think about all those who gave their lives for our freedom.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
Chelsea Koenig, Grade 8
East Hartford Middle School

What does it mean to be a veteran? Well, that's easy to answer. A veteran is a person who is brave and sacrificed their own lives for protecting out country. It must have been hard for their families not knowing when and if they were going to come back home. Veterans are people who went through years of training and served for a long period of time. We never really take the time to appreciate and remember the soldiers who risked their lives for us. We never take the time to thank them either.

When boys and girls turn eighteen, it's time for them to make a decision; a decision that may put their lives at stake. They have to decide to enlist in the army or not. I know that some people are saying to themselves that I don't want to take that kind of risk and may die, but they are only thinking of themselves. On the other hand, many boys and girls want to fight for their country and keep us safe. These are the men and women we shall appreciate today.

If we didn't have anybody serving for our country, we probably wouldn't be here right now. So on November 10, 2006, take some time during the day to give thanks to all the veterans who served for our country and made sure we were safe.

What it Means to be a Veteran
By Joshua Dillon, Grade 7
East Hartford Middle School

Veteran: Old, of long experience, 1: an old soldier of long service 2: a former member of the armed forces 3: a person of long experience in an occupation or skill, adj. This is Merriam-Webster's Desk Dictionary's definition of Veteran. My definition, a person who has proved to all that they are a true American, through and through.

I haven't served my time or fought on the open plains, so I don't know what it means to be a veteran. But I do know this, our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guards and other protectors of justice all help keep our position of the fairest, most democratic, friendliest country in the world, everyday.

After their hard term of work you would think these fine men and women would take some down time. But they don't! Many men and women veterans like to tell their stories to the youth, who know nothing of the horror and bloodshed that is caused by war. Other than remembering and passing on history, some veterans like to get politically involved in our nation's future. They might make a speech at a town meeting or become elected an official themselves; anything to make sure our country is going in the right direction.

Personally, the most I have to worry about each day is doing my homework and wondering when I'll see my friends. I can't imagine worrying about sabotage during the night or if we'll make it to the distress call in time. I would love never seeing a veteran again because that would mean there are no soldiers or rescue men needed. But we are Americans, and we help whenever it is needed, not only for our own country, but others, too.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Kaitlyn Doucette, Grade 7
East Hartford Middle School

What does one think about when they say the word "veteran"? War? Bravery? Love? To many people, they think of all this along with how veterans were willing to fight for whom they love most-their country.

Many people take veterans for granted. They just say "I'm safe", but do they know why? It is because of the veterans who lose their lives everyday to keep this nation safe. Many people also don't know what it is like to be in war. Veterans have experienced what no one else has. They went through having to see their best friends suffer and die. They know what it feels like to be shot at or even shot. They know what it's like to have someone right there next to you and the next minute gone. I'm sure many of you have had someone you care about go to war. It is so sad to even think about your dad or grandfather going to war, I can't even think about being the person going to war. Many of the veterans had to make do without any electricity so they were limited to many foods, bathing regularly, or even a flashlight. I'm sure you didn't really think about many of these things I am mentioning and to tell you the truth, I didn't either. You have to understand, I might not even be here writing this essay if it wasn't for the American veterans.

I have a deep respect for those who risked their lives to keep America a safe place to be. I feel deep sorrow for those families who lost loved ones. 0 say does that Star Spangled Banner yet wave? It certainly does for our U.S. veterans on Veterans Day, November 11, 2006

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Lisa Teitelbaum, Grade 6
King Phillip Middle School in West Hartford

To me, being a veteran means risking your life, serving your country, and fighting so that others can be free.

Both of my grandfathers were veterans. One of my grandpas served in the Korean War as a doctor. He was in Korea when my father was born. In fact, it was Christmas Eve and my grandpa was asked to be Santa Claus for the other soldiers when the telegram arrived that my father was born. To him, although he was away from his family, he felt that being a veteran means helping your country. When he was in the war he may not have seen action but he did see and talk to people who saw a lot of action. We're proud that he saved many lives as a surgeon.

My other grandfather fought in WW2 and was also a doctor. If he were still alive I would ask him what being a veteran would mean to him. In the war, my grandfather talked to the soldiers. He said that to them it was an honor to know that you fought for your country and for what you believed in.

I agree with all of these definitions of being a veteran, but to me the most important is serving so that Americans can be free.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Emma Panto, Grade 6
Mabel B. Avery Middle School in Somers

A Veteran is every man and woman that has ever served in our country's military - the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines. They protect and defend our freedom to keep us safe from any threat in the world. This makes them all very brave and courageous citizens who we, as Americans, are very proud of.

If they knew that it was dangerous and could get hurt or killed in the war, then why would they do it? Well, I think it's because they are strong, brave people, who wanted to protect our country and make a difference. Even though it meant that they would have to leave their families and could possibly get killed, they wanted to fight in the military so people back home could feel safe and wouldn't have to worry about anything happening to our country.

It is because of our Veterans that we live in this free country of America, which is considered the leader of the free world. We have lost many soldiers in our fight for freedom throughout our country's history. If the Veterans had not fought to protect us, we wouldn't be free. The war possibly could be in our country and we would not be safe like many children and their parents that have been killed in foreign countries. The families that are still living in places like Iraq, where the war for freedom is being fought right now, are frightened for their safety. We should be thankful that we are not those families. Because of our strong military and the Veterans who have kept our country safe, we are not in the same place like those families are. Because we are so thankful for what they have done for us, we honor our Veterans on November 11 every year, and we fly our flag proudly!

We want to let all Veterans know that we think they are the bravest Americans. In Washington D.C., we have honored those veterans who have died for our country by building a wall with all their names on it. Many are buried in the Arlington National Cemetery. Many towns also honor their Veterans who have died during wars by having their names on a monument in the town. If there were no Veterans to protect us, then where would we be today?

What Being a Veteran Means?
By Katie Fawthrop, Grade 6
Mabel B. Avery Middle School in Somers
October 10, 2006

Brave Americans, giving up their lives and time with their loved ones, fighting for Freedom and rights is a HERO to me! Veteran's Day is a special day, honoring America's soldiers for what they have done for the country. This day is really important and there should be more than one day a year devoted to soldiers. On this day, people remember soldiers who fought in wars (living or dead) and the men and women fighting now. A veteran is a former member of the armed services (the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines). These people have big hearts and tons of courage.

In my family, there are three veterans that I know of. My Mom's uncle, Frank Desmarais, fought in the Vietnam War. He survived the war, but many of the men in his group died when a bomb blew up very close to him. My grandmother's uncle. Father John Verret, served in World War II. He was a chaplain in the 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne. Father John was a great singer and comforted the soldiers that he served beside, singing songs before they jumped out of their plane into battle. He died during the Battle of the Bulge while helping load an injured soldier onto an ambulance. A bomb hit the truck, killing him. He earned a Purple Heart and the Silver Star awards for his service. My grandfather, Roland Fawthrop, served in the Navy for many years. He was lucky that he did not have to fight in any wars, but he still had his life at risk. My family members were brave to serve for the United States, just like so many more people.

This summer, my family visited Washington, DC. While touring the monuments, I was shocked to see how many people died for our country in war. The Vietnam Memorial had 58,249 names written on a black granite wall in memory of all the people who lost their lives, or arc missing. The World War II Memorial has a wall of gold stars. Each star represents 100 lives lost. There are 4,000 stars on the wall, meaning more than 400,000 US soldiers died. The Korean War Memorial told that over 54,000 Americans died. This monument had plaque stating, "FREEDOM IS NOT FREE." After thinking about it, I believe this because the number of Americans who have risked their lives and died is too big of a number to understand. American people should not take our freedom for granted.Veterans are very important people. These men and women who give everything to protect our freedom deserve much more than just one day a year.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Kathy Le, Grade 6
Parkville Community School in Hartford

Do you know what veteran means? It's not the animal doctor/clinic it means the people who serves the army. It's about protecting our country, protecting other countries, and rescueing people from disaster.

Well, one part of veteran is protecting our country. Protecting our country is part of the army thing. Protecting our country is also important because the army help us stand strong. Our country can protect each other because they didn't want other places taking over our country. Protecting our country is important because we have the rights to stay and fight.Another part of veteran is protecting other countries. Protecting other countries is what armies do. They help other countries because we want to help them. Also, protecting other countries is because we want get along with them and defeat our enemy. Protecting countries is a way how we want to have peace with them.

Well, the last thing about being veteran is rescueing people from disaster. Rescueing people from disaster is important because Armies not only protect our country but people too. If the Iraq people captured somebody, the army would try to save them from danger. For example, if there is a sky attack, like flying bombs the army would come and make sure nobody is hurt. The army would also protect us from danger if we're captured, hostage or anything like that they would save the people from harm or danger.My teacher, Mr. Olmstead is in the army. So I know how it's like because he told us (classroom) what he did there. But he's going to be retired but he knows how it's like to be a veteran.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Natalie Otero, Grade 6
Parkville Community School in Hartford

These are the ones I'm going to talk about Army, Navy, and Marines.
The Army fights on land and they go to other countries to fight. They do that to protect us and they are willing to give up their lives for us. I think that they are brave enough to fight for their people and their country. There are a lot of people who have died for this country. They have left their family and some aren't going to see them again because they have died.

The Navy sail on the ocean to make sure it is okay and it is safe. The Navy look for things in the water and watch for unauthorized boats and ships. They also go on ships and boats to see what are they carrying. They look for things like bombs or guns. The Navy is like a ocean police.

The Marines are the beaches and they are little like the life guards. The Marines guard the beach to make sure everybody is safe. They don't let anyone get hurt. They help the life guards too. So the Marines are beach guards.

That is what it means to be a veteran. They sacrifice their lives for us and many of them have died. Veterans day is to thank them and to remember those who have died. I think Veterans day is important because of that. That is what it means to be a veteran.

What it Means to be a Veteran?
By Brandon Haas, Grade 8
Pope John Paul II Catholic School in New Britain
October 4, 2006

First of all, a veteran is a man or women who has been a soldier in a war and has fought for the United States or another country. Soldiers do not fight because they like to just kill or fight. They go to war to protect the people of the United States and other countries, and they also want to protect their loved ones from harm. They desire that peace and freedom remain in the world. A soldier represents those who want peace and freedom and their job is to prevent people from being harmed or dying. They are very brave and most people rely on soldiers for their protection. My grandfather was a soldier in World War II and he is an example of a courageous veteran.

Soldiers are also very brave and are willing to sacrifice their lives for us, even if it means dying, losing a body part, or coming back from war mentally or physically disabled. Soldiers are also very courageous because they go to war knowing that they probably may not ever come back alive to see their loved ones again.

My grandfather was a veteran from World War II and I never got a chance to meet him because he died before I was born. He was injured in Germany's Black Forest, the worst part of the war, called the Battle of the Bulge. He was only twenty-two years old when he was injured in the war. A piece of metal went through his arm and he had to walk about five miles to save his life while his arm was bleeding and he was very fortunate to survive. If you go to a museum in Belgium you will see a picture of my grandfather along with his bayonet that was found years afterwards by someone that does research. He is an example of a courageous soldier and veteran. For his service in the war he was awarded the Purple Heart. He also felt it was important to support soldiers so he got involved in organizations such as the Disabled American's Veteran's Association and became a commander of this organization.

In summary, a veteran is a person that has protected our country from harm and evil. Veterans are also brave and courageous because they put their life on the line for the freedom of others. If it wasn't for all the soldiers that fought and died for our country we would not have as much freedom. I am also proud of my grandfather for becoming a soldier and protecting us from harm. This is what I feel it means to be a veteran.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
Heather O'Bright, Grade 8
Pope John Paul II Catholic School in New Britain

To me a Veteran is a loyal, honest, caring friend. I personally appreciate the things the soldiers do out their in battle to defend our country- I believe that it takes a lot of courage to go out into war and defend our country to keep our flag flying high to represent freedom in the United States. And I am especially proud of the men and women who risk their lives everyday to help keep us safe.

Actually a few of my family members are veterans and are proud of it. They have told many interesting stories about their time during the war. The thing is someone has to do the job of protecting our country and I am so proud that they choose to do the job. I pray every night that everyone else can experience the stories I have and their loved ones will return safely home to share them. I definitely consider myself very luckily to have my loved ones alive and able to share their good times and their bad.

The thing I hate about war is that right now we are fighting over nothing that is worth losing the lives of our family and friends. I wish that every one would be more caring and help each other out because everyone is equal in God's eyes. We should always help the less fortunate then us and care more about other people feelings then ourselves.At my school I was elected Student Council President and I hope that I can make my school a better place and get more kids motivated to help others and respect the men and women who are fighting to keep freedom in the United States.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
Jessica Lagosz, Grade 8
Pope John Paul the II Catholic School in New Britain

To me being a veteran means working hard to protect our country and all the citizens in it. To be a veteran you can't be afraid of anything or anyone. You need to take risks and try your hardest to do everything the best you possibly can. When you're a veteran you have to be proud of what you did to serve our country and not regret any second of it. Veterans have courage. Not anyone would leave their family and friends and fight in war across the sea for years at a time. Every person in this country should thank a veteran for giving them the freedom they have and giving them the ability to say " The Pledge of Allegiance".

I myself am very grateful to all veterans. Without them I wouldn't be able to have freedom of speech or freedom of religion, which are very important to me. Veterans to me are like hero's.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Tyler Alexander, Grade 7
Pope John Paul II Catholic School

The dictionary describes a veteran as a long-serving member of the armed forces who has had much active service. However, in my opinion to be a veteran means that you took on the greatest duty of all by risking your life to protect your country. Currently the United States of America is in the middle of a large war involving various countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, and other Middle Eastern countries. This war has been going on for years but was escaladed on September 1111 2001 when two hi-jacked planes crashed directly into the World Trade Center in New York City. On March 1st 2003 the "major combat" was ended by President George W. Bush when he used a large banner to declare that their mission in Iraq had been accomplished. Since the declaration of the end of the Iraqi war approximately two thousand five hundred and ninety-six American troops have been killed with two thousand one hundred and twenty seven of those deaths occurring on the actual battlefields.

In the minds of the thousands of people involved in the war they aren't heroes, but to the minds of Americans everywhere they are the greatest heroes of all.

I think it would be great to have enough courage to risk your life on the frontlines of the war in Iraq or any other war to protect the tax paying, law abiding citizens of the United States of America. To be a veteran also means you were one of the lucky people who has survived previous wars including the Vietnam War and the current global War on Terror. To me this is what it means to be a veteran of the United States Armed Forces.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Sheona Thuillier, Grade 8
Pope John Paul II Catholic School in New Britain
October 5, 2006

A veteran is a person who is experienced in a particular area, and is particularly used to refer to people in the armed forces. It often refers to retired service personnel. A veteran is one who has served in the armed forces and has an honorable discharge; a common misconception is that one has either been in combat and/or is retired from active duty to be called a veteran.

To me a veteran is a good person. They were the ones who fought for our country years ago. These veterans saved most of humanity. Without these people we all probably in an all out war all over the place. But thanks to the veterans they saved most of our people.A veteran is blessed and should deserve great gratitude. They are treated with great respect in society. Veterans have made peace more peaceful since then. I would like to thank these veterans for what they have done. They deserve more. So do the men and women who served in small conflicts for the United States. Speeches, parades, ceremonies and the like were held all over the country to remember the sacrifice that these young men made so that freedom could continue. It was a celebration of peace, and those who fought to provide it.

The WWII veterans are dying out. The handful, and it is truly a handful, of WWI vets are fading fast. Korean War, Vietnam and Gulf War veterans need our thanks. So to all of the veterans, men, and women, I thank you and so does everyone else in the United States of America.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Maebh Sheelan, Grade 7
St. Gabriel School in Windsor

To me a Veteran means "freedom". The freedom to go to school, the freedom to practice my own religion and, the freedom to go where I want, when I want.

Because of veterans I don't have to be afraid when I am doing these things. I thank veterans everyday because of the freedom they give me. They give their lives unselfishly for all of us.

The word veteran means: a person who has served in a military force, especially one who has fought in a war. You can't totally define what it means to be a veteran. There can be many meanings, each veteran has one for themselves. One woman in the Army National Guard said that it was an honor to be a veteran.

As I was reading the newspaper recently, a veteran wrote an article stating that people did not believe that he was a veteran. He felt angry that someone was trying to deprive him of his service to his country. It is not right to judge a person and take away pieces of a person. Veterans are very important and they give us the freedom we all have today.We have Veterans Day to honor all the veterans, alive or dead. This holiday is very important to many people, either honoring someone they know who was in a war or they may be a veteran.

The Traveling Wall came to Windsor for the first time. My school walked to visit the monument. It was very emotional and very moving. Many people were sad or crying for all of the people who died in the war. I believe that all the people on that wall were, veterans. They died for a great cause; to represent their country. Fighting for the freedom of others and the protection of ones county is truly a life commitment.

What it Means to be a Veteran?
By Gwendolyn Peyton, Grade 6
St. Gabriel School in Windsor

Veterans. When people think about them, they think about World War I, World War II and the Vietnam War. However, when you think about it, even though they are dead, there are War of 1812 veterans, and Civil War veterans, and Revolutionary War veterans. A veteran did not just fight in the Army or the Navy or the Air Force. They could have fought in the Marines or the National Guard or the Coast Guard. A veteran did not just fight in a war. They did much more than that. They made this country grow to be what it is today.

Veterans think about themselves as ordinary men and women, but how many people have really lived in the trenches for weeks on end? That person that you pass everyday in the grocery store or the school principal that you had when you were in third grade or maybe even your doddering old neighbor who lives next door could all be veterans.

The dictionary definition of words should be accurate, but if you look up the word "veteran" in the dictionary, it says: "One who has served in the armed forces" when it should be "One who has served in the military and done everything they can do to help make our country what it is today". Some veterans have never returned from defending our freedom. They are the fallen soldiers, the prisoners of war and those missing in action. We should remember to thank veterans every day.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Matthew Pranaitis, Grade 7
St. Gabriel School in Windsor

To be a Veteran it means it is your job to defend and protect your country's freedoms. Without thinking about your own life, you put your life in danger to protect your country. Serving in the United States military is one of the most honorable things you can do in your life.

You are serving for the best country in the world. You can be in the worst conditions, but when you see that flag it brings you closer to home. In your unit you are like a family that works together and protects each other. In a family it is always hard when you lose a member.

To have the feeling that you are keeping this country safe is great. Any day or any time you have to be ready to fight. Respect is a big thing in urgent times. You have to respect the orders of fellow officers and not argue with them. Respect is a huge thing in life that people have to have if they want to get the job done. You have the courage to go to places in a matter of seconds that most people would not go in a lifetime.

The best thing of all is being honored when you get home. You mourn with the families of soldiers that did not make it back home. When you come back home it feels great to have completed your mission and to protect peoples' freedoms that they enjoy every day of their lives. It is important to give back to the community somehow. Being a United States Veteran you have certainly done that.

To be a Veteran you do not to it for the glory or the fame. You do it for the citizens of the country to keep them safe and for the flag because it is what this country stands for. To be a Veteran you have the strength to face all the odds. This is what it truly means to be a Veteran.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
Title: Veterans
By Nicole Bilodeau, Grade 6
St. Gabriel School in Windsor

A veteran is someone that served in the military during a war. That is the definition I found in the dictionary. To me a veteran is a person that is selfless and is willing to die for there country. A veteran is someone to honor and look up to that's why we celebrate Veterans Day. A veteran is a person that risks their life for their country to keep us all safe.

I think a veteran is a hero/heroine. These soldiers can help us. Everyday we should be praying that these brave men and women are okay and that the make it home safe. Also that the veterans don't have to go back to war or that if they got hurt that they are recovering quickly.

All these men, women and veterans are protecting us from any dangerous human beings like Saddam Hussein and Osama Bin Laden. People don't take the time they should to appreciate all the veterans and people fighting for our country. These soldiers are dying in Iraq and Afghanistan on a daily basis. This is what a veteran means to me.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
Title: Veterans
Essay By Alex Swinford, Grade 6
Poster By MacKenzie Langefels, Grade 6
Tarriffville Elementary School

A Veteran is a former member of the armed forces. A Veteran is a man or woman who has served in the active military, either the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or the Coast Guard. I think Veterans should have a lot of pride. They help to make our country a better place by putting their life on the line to protect our freedom and make the world a better place.

Sometimes people don't always agree with the wars the Veteran's fight in but most people support our Veterans. They serve our country and most people around the nation looks up to them. To be a Veteran is to be a hero because they risked their lives so that we can be free. My Uncle William is in the Armed Forces and is serving in the war with Iraq. I understand that Veterans make a huge sacrifice. Their families also make a huge sacrifice. When Uncle William is away fighting the war, my Aunt Sheri, my cousins, Garrett and Megan and the rest of our family miss him very much and worry about his saftey. My Aunt has to be a single parent while he is away and take care of the family. Uncle William is not able to go to my cousins games, help them with their homework and sometimes misses their birthdays. I am proud of my Uncle. I have a lot of respect for Veterans and the sacrifices they and their families make for me and my family.

What It Means To Be A Veteran?
By Farah Khalid, Grade 7
Vernon Center Middle School

Many people just think that Veterans Day is just an excuse for a day off school or work, but don't realize the importance of Veterans Day. Forget knowing the meaning of the day, they don't even know the meaning of veteran. A veteran is some one who is devoted at heart to serve his or her country. To serve till there is nothing more to do. They are willing to do anything in there will to help stop destruction to occur on our country. They are the men and women of the military .They fight till death to protect us. What do we do in return? We don't even take a moment to remember them instead we take Veterans Day for granted. If we were just to think for a few moments what these people have sacrificed for us you would be amazed. I mean these people have sacrificed there lives for us and we can't even thank them. What kind of people does that make us? Ask your self this question would you be a good citizen if we didn't thank these people who risk there lives everyday knowing they could die any minute. In my heart I don't believe that we would be very good people if we did that. All Im trying to say is that we should be thankful and thank these wonderful people.

What It Means to Be A Veteran?
By Michelle Downs, Grade 7
Vernon Center Middle School

What does it mean to be a Veteran? A Veteran is someone who has served in the Military, someone who has fought in a war, and might have been injured. Someone who helped us keep our freedom. A person who bares signs of their service: a missing limb, a jagged scar, a certain look in their eyes. Others may carry evidence inside them, a pin holding the bones in place, shrapnel from a bomb, or they hold the evidence in their soul. These people bare no badge or emblem, but would proudly say they were in a war.

They never run out of fuel no matter how hot or cold it may get. They are the people in the parade with all the pins and ribbons, and prosthetic hand. The unknown solder in the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier", that will never be recognized again.

They are the ordinary but extraordinary people that have served for our country. These people have left their families in a moments notice to do what they felt was right. The death toil numbers are growing daily, but without all the men and woman stationed all over, the world now, and before my time, we might not be here right now. The service people felt that this was their job to protect their homeland, the United States. The jobs that they perform when they are on the battlefield, or here at home working to keep those on the battlefield safe, they are just as important, as the ones fighting.

Veteran's Day is the day that we remember our fallen heroes. Whether they are alive right now, or have sacrificed their life, and left their families behind for our freedom. This is defiantly a reason to take a day out of our busy schedule to remember these people, our loved ones.

I find it hard to believe that some people do not stop and think about our Veterans. The way I look at it is we, as Americans cannot thank these men and woman enough for what they have done for us.

Remember each time you see someone who has served for us, just tell them Thank You. Even if it is the old person bagging groceries at the supermarket, it might mean more to him then all his medals.

I would personality like to say "THANK YOU TO ALL THAT HAVE SERVED FOR US!"

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