When Benjamin Franklin was asked whether or not the United States of America was a democracy or a republic, he gave this answer: “A republic, if you can keep it.”
To say this a different way, freedom is won in each generation, and each generation has to ask whether or not the fight for freedom is worth it.
In celebration of Veterans Day, it’s important to honor those American soldiers who have sacrificed so much to keep families across our nation safe and free. But how can we give back to those who have given so much for us?
Ways Your Family Can Honor Our Veterans
There are many Veterans Day activities to help teach your children about the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served in our armed forces.
Attend a Veterans Day Parade
Often, cities and towns will host a local Veterans Day parade to honor our veterans. Whether you get involved in the parade or simply go with your family to watch, this can be an entertaining way to celebrate Veterans Day, especially if you have younger children.
Send a Letter to a Veteran
Do you have a family friend or extended family member who has served in the U.S. military? As another great project for young students, consider encouraging your child to write letter or card thanking this person for serving and protecting our nation. This simple act of kindness is sure to bring a spark of joy to your recipient’s day.
And, if you don’t know any veterans personally, there are several charitable organizations out there that will take your letter and mail it for you.
Read a Story About Sacrifice or Freedom
What better way to teach your student about the true meaning of Veterans Day than to read a relevant story aloud with him or her?
Whether you read about a story of freedom or sacrifice from The American Experience Storybook, New World Echoes, or a resource of your own choosing, be sure to follow it with a discussion with your student about the importance of protecting freedom.
After all, one of the best ways to honor our veterans and ensure their service was not in vain is simply to teach our students that freedom is worth fighting for!
Read: “Amos Fortune and True Freedom”
Host an Excellence in Education Event
If you’re a Classical Conversations member, consider putting on an Excellence in Education event to honor our veterans.
This is a one-day occasion to demonstrate the effort and accomplishments of students in the Foundations, Essentials, and Challenge programs to members of your town or community. These events are typically held around Presidents’ Day in February, Constitution Day in September, or Veterans Day in November, often with a theme that relates to the nearby national holiday.
So, if you choose to host an Excellence in Education event around Veterans Day this year, consider encouraging your students to present on a historical event or figure important to the theme of protecting freedom.
Read: “Host an Excellence in Education Event!”
Remember This on Veterans Day
Just like Christmas or Thanksgiving, Veterans Day is an annual reminder for something we should keep in mind all year long. As Americans, we are fortunate enough to live in a country with a high level of freedom, freedom that is preserved every day by those who serve in our military.
So, be encouraged to remember to honor all year long our soldiers who have given up years away from their family and friends to protect our nation. God bless and have a great Veterans Day!
