Forest Lake Elementary School proudly hosted its first Veterans Day Celebration honoring those who have served our country over the years. Approximately 30 veterans who served in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps during the Vietnam, Afghanistan, and the War on Terrorism conflicts.

The morning began with a warm and welcoming bagel breakfast in the cafeteria where students and their special veterans shared a few special moments. The celebration continued with a schoolwide parade where students waved American flags, displayed hand-made posters, cards and banners as applause and patriotic music filled the air.

Following the parade, veterans visited classrooms to share their personal experiences while serving. These conversations gave students an opportunity to learn directly from those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation’s freedoms over the years.

Fourth grader Brady’s grandfather shared memories of joining the Air Force. Mr. Bill Boyce wanted to join the armed forces but couldn’t decide which branch. “My friend and I flipped a coin and shortly after joined the Air Force when we were about 19 years old. “The military teaches you to take care of yourself,” he said. “It teaches you responsibility really quickly because your mom is not there to help you.”

Mrs. Sottnik, 2^nd grade teacher, invited her husband Major John Sottnik to share the time he served in the medical ops unit while in Bagdad. Amongst many other duties, he shared how he visited various communities to do medical exams, which is very different from how students in America visit the doctor.

Mason, a 2nd grader in Mrs. Gottlieb’s class, invited his grandfather Mitchell Connochie to speak to his classmates. Mr. Connochie served in the Navy from 1976-1980 and was one of 5,700 Naval officers first to serve on the USS Nimitz sailing to Greece, Egypt, and Portugal to name a few locations. As of 2026, the aircraft carrier is scheduled to be decommissioned in 2026 as the oldest carrier in the U.S. Navy.

Forest Lake Elementary extends its deepest thanks to all the veterans who served. Their courage and commitment serve as an inspiration to the entire school community. Thank you to the PTA for helping to make this event a success.