On Monday, November 10, 2008 four classes from Homestead School took part in a special assembly honoring Captain Sean Thompson from the United States Marine Corp. Garden City's technology staff developer, Mrs. Lauren Maguire, discovered a program online through the History Channel, "Bring a Vet to School," and shared the idea with Homestead teachers. Mrs. Jennifer Solano, a first grade teacher, spearheaded and coordinated the Veterans Day tribute by the two first grade and two kindergarten classes.

Dressed in red, white, and blue, the children used this day to reflect and honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. They gave special thanks to these courageous and selfless individuals and took this opportunity to strengthen ties to their community. In essence, they brought history to life in the classroom! The children learned the importance of showing the veterans how much they value their service.

The children asked Captain Thompson questions after stating various facts that they learned in the classroom. The children presented Captain Thompson with an American flag created with each child's hand print, showing how Veterans Day is a day to remember the "impression" every veteran has made on our lives. The first grade students also wrote acrostic poems for Captain Thompson and for those currently serving in Iraq.

The ceremony ended with the children singing a beautiful rendition of "God Bless America". The four classes and Captain Thompson then enjoyed red, white, and blue cupcakes. It was a wonderful day of tribute to our veterans filled with gratitude and the American spirit.