The event doubled as a celebration for Veterans Day and the 249th birthday for the U.S. Marines. Attendees enjoyed cake and learned about local veterans. Children created heartfelt letters and hand-made U.S. flags for active duty and veteran Marines with the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron HMLA-269 in Jacksonville, N.C.
A table at the event provided photos and information about local veterans.
“The students, many of whom have little personal connection to military life, demonstrated an incredible maturity as they learned about the sacrifices made by those in uniform,” Forsyth Admissions Representative Stephenee Armas said.
Children also wrote short letters to the soldiers, complete with messages like “Thank you for protecting our freedom,” “You are my hero,” and “We are proud of you.”
Children paste together pieces of paper into American flags.
There was a powerful silence as each child sat with their pen, taking time to choose their words carefully, their faces filled with a mix of youthful innocence and profound respect.
“The students have no way of knowing where their letters will end up or who will be receiving their crafts, but it doesn't matter. What matters is that they gave a piece of their hearts in the hopes of lifting the spirits of someone who has sacrificed so much.”
All craft materials were provided to families for the event.
Armas said this event is a reminder that courage is not just about the battles fought on the front lines, but about the small, everyday acts of kindness and understanding that ripple through communities. Crafts for Courage brought together people from different walks of life for one singular purpose: to say thank you.
Great work celebrating our armed services, Forsyth!
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About Forsyth Academy
Forsyth Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes over 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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