Valley school students honor veterans

GLENDALE, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Friday is Veterans Day, a day where many school students will have off. One school in Glendale, however, is keeping to the tradition of celebrating Veterans Day, a day early.

For the Sierra Verde STEM Academy, Thursday was all about celebrating the veterans, and the theme shows all over campus.

"When I'm seeing these kids, and how much it's evident that they love their country, it was very powerful. Very powerful," said Colonel Robert Allen Sylvester. He, along with Chief Master Sergeant Todd Kirsch, visited from Luke Air Force Base to feel the love of more than 1,000 students.

"We want to let them know that we are here, really, to protect and serve," said Kirsch. "And we want them to grow up and have the chances to do and be whatever they want to be."

For the 10th consecutive year, an assembly was put together, so students could show veterans their gratitude.

"Because they don't always know that we are glad that they're serving us," said Andie, a sixth grade student.

Thousands of items were collected, and they will go in care packages for soldiers. In addition, hundreds of handwritten letters will be sent abroad as well.

"I said that we really thank you for your service, and we appreciate what you sacrificed for us," said fifth grader Olivia.

A sacrifice that has been felt by many in the room, as some lost family members in various wars overseas.

The packages and letters from students will be delivered to the organization Packages From Home, and sent overseas before the holidays.