Walnut Ridge students sing along for Memorial Day

VERNON — Peace and security were evident, May 30, at the Walnut Ridge Primary School Kindergarten Patriotic Sing Along.
Precious voices recited the “Pledge of Allegiance,” followed by sweet sounds of joy as the kindergartners sang: “You're a Grand Old Flag,” “God Bless America,” “America, the Beautiful,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” and “This Land is Your Land.”
About 220 little star bedecked red, white, and blue paper hats bobbed up and down as shy little smiles peaked out at the green sloping hill full of: parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. It was standing room only.
The audience waved. Siblings tried running to big sisters and brothers. Babies waited in carriages. Chattering and practicing the art of chair sitting also happened before the big event.
Principal Rosemary Gebhardt reminded, “We are here today to celebrate Memorial Day. So let's take a moment of silence to remember all those who have served our country.”
Gebhardt continued, “We thank our parents and anyone serving in the military. If you served or are currently serving, please come on down, so we can thank you personally.”
The heroes stood by flags — to much cheering and clapping. Gebhardt commented, “There are a lot of service people. One more round of applause.”
Desert Storm veteran Lieutenant Keith Kimkowski, of the Vernon Police Department, and Bosnia veteran Sergeant Steve Davis, of the Ogdensburg Police Department, were some of the heroes.
Later, Gebhardt explained, the Patriotic Sing Along is a way to teach children about performance with their whole class. Also, she added, it is a nice way to recognize Memorial Day. The students learn about Memorial Day in their Social Studies curriculum, giving “them an understanding why we are celebrating, and what we are thankful for. Also, giving an opportunity to recognize the men in the audience who had served.”
At the end, everyone gave hugs and waves. Little ones said, “I love you.” “Bye, Mommy.” “Bye, Grandma!” “One more kiss!” while holding onto their hats; and big sisters kissed little sisters in carriages good-bye - just one more time.
When Lt. Robert A. Madden VFW Post 10152 Ogdensburg Commander and District Commander of Sussex and Warren Counties Davis was told, “Thank you for serving,” he immediately responded, “My pleasure, my pleasure,” with a smile.
In 1997, Davis served with the army in Bosnia, where he celebrated his 19th birthday.
Davis explained the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) started in the Spanish American War, when returning veterans banded together and petitioned Congress for compensation, especially for those who could not work after returning home.
He added, as generations have continued through WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam, the VFW has secured the Veterans Administration and necessary medical care for younger veterans.
Davis said it would be good for younger veterans to understand the VFW, American Legion, and many other Veteran organizations paved the way and continue to fight for Veterans rights — through legislation and behind the scenes volunteer work. He added, “It is a very good volunteer organization.”
Davis's parents understand the cost of sacrifice, because not only was he in Bosnia, but their daughter also served in Iraq.
Thanks to the Davis family, and all the other veterans and service men lined up in honor at Walnut Ridge, the kindergartners were able to delight friends and family with patriotic songs.