Love Creek Elementary honors veterans at school assemblies

The Love Creek Elementary School PTO welcomed veterans from across the community Nov. 12 for two special assemblies dedicated to honoring their service and sacrifice.

Veterans were joined by their families and their Love Creek students as the school community came together in gratitude and celebration.

Veterans in attendance each introduced themselves by name, military branch and rank, including Love Creek’s very own staff member, custodian Don Harmon, known to students as “Mr. Don.”

Their introductions were followed by a touching performance of “We Honor You” by the third-grade students under the direction of music teacher Dana Joseph, setting a heartfelt tone for the event.

Throughout the assembly, students deepened their understanding of military service. They learned about the different branches of the armed forces, explored the rules of flag etiquette and discovered notable Americans who served in the military. Michael Morgan, a Cape Henlopen High School graduate, played taps on the trumpet.

A highlight was a flag-folding demonstration by siblings Josephine and Thomas Stachowski, who were joined by their grandfather, J. Keith Warner, a U.S. Navy veteran and a member of the Presidential Honor Guard during the Vietnam era. Their presentation offered students a powerful visual lesson on tradition and respect.

With the help of family submissions, Love Creek Elementary also shared a commemorative slideshow honoring veterans unable to attend, as well as those who are no longer living, in a thoughtful tribute that added depth and reflection to the program.

At the conclusion of the assembly, veterans were presented with tokens of appreciation, including handmade poppies crafted by younger students under the guidance of art teacher Forrest Allread. The ceremony closed with group photos and many expressions of gratitude from students, staff and families.

“Honoring our veterans is one of the most meaningful traditions we have at Love Creek,” said Principal Equetta Jones. “It is a privilege for our scholars to learn directly from the heroes in our own community, and we are deeply grateful to the veterans and families who joined us to make this day so special.”