Veterans appreciated at Bonsall Elementary - Special ceremony November 1 an educational experience

The ceremony began at exactly 9:11 a.m. and it wasn’t by chance. When fourth grade teacher Miss Fleury and parent volunteers at Bonsall Elementary planned a special event to recognize veterans on November 1, it was organized not only to show appreciation for the men and women serving our country but to be educational to the students.

The time, 9:11, had special significance and the students knew it was in remembrance of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and all the lives that were lost.

Representatives from different branches of the service gathered for the ceremony to demonstrate to students that there is a special bond between those serving in the armed services, underscored, as one said, by the statement “I shall not fail those with whom I serve.” It was explained that many who have served this country have sacrificed their lives for not only other Americans, but their fellow soldiers.

The presentation also included a short film clip entitled “Honoring our Fallen Marines.”

Focus was placed on the American flag and what it symbolizes. Flag etiquette was reviewed, including the facts that the flag should be clean and without tears, rips or shredding; if flown at night, it should always be illuminated; the flag should always be hung vertically; the flag should never be used for advertising purposes; when the flag passes, all persons should show respect by standing at attention while facing the flag with their right hand over their hearts; and the flag should always be kept from touching the ground.

It was demonstrated how the American flag has 13 folds. They are:

• The first fold is a symbol of life.

• The second is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.

• The third is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.

• The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

• The fifth fold is a tribute to our country.

• The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

• The seventh fold is a tribute to our armed forces, for it is through the armed forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies.

• The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.

• The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood, and mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

• The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.

• The eleventh fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon.

• The twelfth fold represents an emblem of eternity.

• The thirteenth fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our nation’s motto, “In God We Trust.”

The appreciation ceremony concluded with the cutting of a cake reading “Thank You” to the veterans and active duty servicemen and women in attendance.