On Veteran's Day I wrote about Mr. Levdansky and what a great man he was. I am very said to say that Mr. Levdansky passed away on November 26. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Many words have been spoken, many pages written about the legendary deeds and the brave spirit of the men and women who serve our country. Today in many schools across America the day will pass like many others. At Elizabeth Forward we try to go a little beyond so that our students know how special these amazing people are.

Over the years through our Veteran's Day activities I have made some of the most dear and special friends.

This is Mr. Walter Levdansky who I met when we started the Veteran's Day Assemblies at the middle school. Mr. Levdansky fought in WW II in the Battle of the Bulge. He is one of the most kind and sweet gentlemen I have known and he is a true hero. Two of my favorite things to sing for are the annual Memorial Day celebration in Elizabeth and the Merchant Mariners Day. We have so many awesome veterans here in our community. I hope that today and every day, if you see someone wearing a uniform or a veteran's hat that you will stop them and simply say, "thank you".

For each of them.....

Home of the Brave by Roger Robicheau

Through the feel of war they brave this day
How proud they stand, their unselfish way

Our soldiers bear what we cannot see
They assure our right to live life free

Each trained will face an unknown fate
Our support they need, don’t hesitate

Just imagine how this land would be
Without their courage - catastrophe

All the liberties we have grown to know
Would not exist, this life would go

Find a thankfulness within your mind
Speak gratitude for our bravest kind

Have the willingness to show you care
For fallen heroes, hold back no tear

Reach out to God with his guiding light
For our troops do pray, both day and night

America raise your flags to wave
For we truly are 'home of the brave'