Jefferson Middle School held its annual Veteran’s Day Gathering on Nov. 10, during which students had the chance to have breakfast with local veterans to learn about their time in the service.

The Jefferson Middle School cafeteria is filled with fifth graders, their teachers, and some special guests. Yet, despite the crowd, one could almost hear a pin drop as some of those special guests began sharing their stories.

Nearly a dozen local veterans gathered with Jefferson fifth graders as part of the school’s annual Veterans Day Gathering, a longstanding tradition of nearly two decades.

“The Veterans Day Gathering began about 25 years ago thanks to the work of my former teammate and now-retired teacher, Paul Lombardo,” said fifth grade teacher and event organizer Gina Hess. “From there, the event expanded and this year, we’ve been able to reach three-times as many students with my teammates Heidi Hoden, Tara Mammoser, and Stacy Monroe.”

The aim, Hess said, is to share real-life service experiences with students.

“We want students to understand the meaning behind the sacrifices our guests have made for our freedom,” she said. “Learning goes beyond the textbook — that’s what this day is all about.”

The students have the chance to converse with veterans over breakfast before presenting to them as a way of thanking them for their service. After the presentation, the veterans then have a chance to share stories from their time in the service during a Q-and-A session.

Hess, who has been involved with the program for the last 21 years, said her favorite part is the excitement students have from the knowledge they gain during the event.

“Some students build a strong relationship with these veterans over simple breakfast conversation — it stays with them for life!” Hess said. “It’s so exciting to even have former students ask me if I still host this event and share past memories. This event makes an immeasurable impact on students and I’m so grateful to be a part of it!”