VETERAN: A golden gift

I was blessed with a most wonderful gift Nov. 11, when my wife and I attended the Veterans Day ceremony downtown. Being a veteran, I was proudly wearing my Air Force Veteran’s cap that day. As the crowd was dispersing and we were departing the area, we noticed a small boy and his mother standing nearby. With a little urging from his mother, the boy approached me and held out a little booklet he had beautifully colored.

Each page was illustrated with various freedoms we all enjoy, such as going to school, voting, playing, traveling and celebrating. The final page reads: “I am thankful to our Veterans for freedom.”

This gesture by a kindergartner touched my heart so deeply it brought tears to my eyes. Thank you, young Harrison, for the beautiful book, and a big thanks to your mother, too, for taking time to teach you about the importance of remembering and honoring our veterans. Your booklet is proudly displayed on our refrigerator, and we think of you every day.

PETE SLOCUM

Coeur d’Alene