Veteran's Day 2011

 A few of us got together at the local elementary school today.

That is a Marine Helicopter Pilot who served in Vietnam sitting next to Patric's hat; his kids live in our neighborhood and their grandson was singing in the choir.

He and his wife were the most charming people.

Likewise, Patric and I were escorted to our seats by a very charming fifth-grader.

And the program this school put on was pretty darn impressive--from an honor guard to raise the flag, 2 minutes of silence for the fallen, history, music, and so many flags.

 But the boys had eyes on daddy right after the show.

And they were quick to find us in the throng.

 And then we were treated to lunch with the boys.

During which we had this bright observation from my eldest child:

Nicholas: "Mommy, what are you doing here?  You're not a Veteran."

I didn't go straight across the table at him, although the scene played out in my head.

 And after the boys were tucked back in their classrooms for the day, Patric and I got a chance to look at all of the posters from the families here honoring their loved-ones who have served.

But this may be the most sweet gift of all from the neighbor kids.