In the heart of Burrillville, Rhode Island, the Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library is gearing up to host a special event that will bring the community together to honor and appreciate local veterans. As Veterans Day approaches, the library's Children's Department is spearheading an initiative to educate and engage the youth in understanding the significance of this national holiday.

Empowering the Next Generation to Appreciate Veteran Sacrifice

Marching in Formation: Connecting Kids with Local Veterans

On Thursday, November 7th, from 6 to 7 pm, the library will open its doors to families, inviting them to participate in a unique program that will allow children to learn firsthand about the experiences of local veterans. The event will begin with an opportunity for the kids to learn how to march in formation, led by Commander Raymond Trinque of the Berard-Desjarlais American Legion Post 88 Burrillville and Air Force veteran Robert Gallant. This hands-on activity will not only teach the children the discipline and precision required in military formations but also serve as a warm-up for the main program.Following the marching exercise, the event will move indoors to the library's community room, where families will have the chance to meet and interact with the local veterans from the Berard-Desjarlais American Legion Post 88 Burrillville. Commander Trinque, a U.S. Army veteran, will share his experiences and insights, providing the children with a firsthand account of what it means to serve one's country. This informal setting will encourage the kids to ask questions and engage with the veterans, fostering a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation.

Crafting Heartfelt Gratitude: Thank You Cards for Veterans

In addition to the interactive discussions, the library has set up a craft table where families can create personalized thank you cards for the veterans. This hands-on activity will allow the children to express their appreciation and gratitude for the service and sacrifices of those who have served in the military. The cards will be given to the veterans in attendance, serving as a tangible reminder of the community's appreciation for their dedication.

Connecting with Local Veterans: Burrillville Schools' Veteran Engagement

The Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library's event is not the only initiative aimed at connecting the youth of Burrillville with local veterans. On Monday, November 4th, the Burrillville Public Schools held a professional day for teachers, during which the students had the opportunity to meet with Marine Corps veteran Sgt. Angela Cardone and her canine companion, Bogi, a Belgian Malinois. This interaction provided the children with another avenue to learn about the experiences and contributions of those who have served in the armed forces.

Fostering a Culture of Appreciation: The Importance of Veteran Engagement

The efforts of the Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library and the Burrillville Public Schools to engage the youth with local veterans are a testament to the community's commitment to honoring and appreciating those who have served. By providing these interactive and educational experiences, the organizers are not only teaching the children about the sacrifices made by veterans but also instilling a sense of respect and gratitude that will hopefully carry on for generations to come.As the nation prepares to celebrate Veterans Day, the Burrillville community is leading the way in ensuring that the next generation understands the significance of this important holiday. Through programs like the one at the Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library, the youth of Burrillville are being empowered to connect with and appreciate the veterans who have dedicated their lives to protecting the freedoms we all enjoy.