Did you blow up things? That is the question a 5th grader from Stevenson Elementary in Long Beach, asked Marine Veteran, Corporal Ozzie Lemus. Smiling, Lemus Replied, “Yes, I blew up things, like old cars during my training exercises, it was fun…”
The teachers of Stevenson Elementary not only wanted the students to read about Veterans’ Day, but, to meet a veteran as part of their lesson. Two Iraq Veterans, Corporal Ozzie Lemus and Sergeant Blas Villalobos, became part of the lesson for the 4th and 5th graders of Stevenson Elementary on Monday, November 10th.
Upon arrival Lemus and Villalobos were greeted by a welcome sign hanging on the front gate. As the students caught sight of the veterans, particularly Corporal Lemus, who donned his uniform, the students began to surround them to take a closer look. The students’ eyes expressed the excitement of the visitors as they began to ask them questions. Lemus and Villalobos were saved by the morning bell, which prompted the students to freeze in-place before taking their places in line.
Mr. Gonzalo Moraga, the Principle, then called everyone’s attention to the top of the playground where the two veterans stood next to a group of students representing Student Council. Moraga greeted the students in both English and Spanish and asked them to greet their special guest. In unison they all said, “Good Morning.”
After the greeting was complete, Lemus and Villalobos lead the students in the Pledge of Allegiance which was followed by the playing of the National Anthem; the students keep their eyes toward the front. The student council then gave a special Veterans’ Day Presentation.
The presentation was as follows:
On Veteran’s Day we thank and honor those who served, those who are serving today, in the United States armed services. Veterans Day is observed on November 11 every year. This date used to be called Armistice Day, when the peace agreement was signed in 1918 to end World War I.
Who is a Veteran?
Veterans are people who served in military (U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard) in times of war or peace. These brave people have volunteered to protect our freedom. Do you know who a veteran is? Maybe it is your mother, father, sister, brother, aunt, uncle, grandfather, cousin, neighbor, or teacher.” YOU can be very proud of them. Many have given much to keep us safe and free.
Have you thanked a Veteran today?
Following the presentation Villalobos and Lemus then individually visited the 4th and 5th grade classes for questions and answers.
Some of the questions they asked:
Do they let your hair grow long?
Have you gone to a place where you had to save people?
When did you know you wanted to go into the military?
What are your pins on your uniform for?
How old are you? (I think this was the most asked a question).
Where were you posted?
What countries have you been to?
Lemus and Villalobos both told the students of their Good Conduct Ribbons, and how it takes 3 years to earn it. They were both very proud of the ribbon and expressed to the students how important it is to always do their best and be their best.
Lemus and Villalobos were also asked list several survival skills they needed to survive while serving; they listed: 1) Patience 2) Knowledge 3) Self-Motivation 4) Family – reaching out to them during the hard times.
I applaud the teachers and staff of Stevenson school for educating our children and teaching them the importance of honoring those who have served, especially Ms. Belkis Miqueleiz and Ms. Rosa Diaz, for organizing the visit. I was amazed by the knowledge the students have on military and the current war. I was moved by their desire for more knowledge and motivation to ask questions of the veterans.
Corporal Lemus and Sergeant Villalobos thank you for taking the time to share your stories and encourage our children. Thank you for serving our country and for continuing to serve our community.
Lemus and Villalobos are staff members of U.S. VETS-Long Beach.
