Over the years, I've covered numerous observances and programs. And, sometimes I feel like I'm doing a remake of the movie Groundhog Day. If you didn't see it, Bill Murray, portraying an egotistical meteorologist who hated covering the annual appearance of Punxsutawney Phil, became captive in a time loop and repeated the same day over and over again. However, his been there done that attitude is finally changed after the imposed time of reflection.

Monday, during a Veterans Day program that I assumed would be routine, I was spurred, or maybe emotionally walloped would be more fitting, to reflect on the importance of paying tribute to those who serve and have served this country in military service.

It's not as if I haven't always respected veterans and realized their sacrifices. I have. My father served in WWII and fought in the Normandy Invasion. Uncle Sam drafted that man-of-mine during the Vietnam Conflict. Thankfully, he did not have to serve in Vietnam. However, he left for Korea when our first-born son was 10-days old. Talk about postpartum depression-wow.

And, now, our second born son is serving in the United States Army. I've watched him say goodbye to his wife and daughters far too many times. I've struggled with the separations and the fears as a wife and mother of soldiers. And, unfortunately, I watched my dad battle his nightmarish memories of D-Day. Yet, like my dad, I've always been extremely proud of their service.

On Monday, as students from Buckingham County Elementary and Primary schools offered a thunderous applause to approximately 60 area veterans, I couldn't help but get emotional. The applause wasn't just momentary, it was sustained-long and LOUD as the veterans stepped in awe and made their way to the rows of chairs waiting for them in the gymnasium. If possible, the applause grew even louder after the veterans were seated.

My hubby described the feeling as “absolutely amazing.” I found it astounding and so wished that my dad could have experienced such a stunning display of appreciation. And, I hoped that one day my son would be on the receiving end of such thanksgiving.

But, the wallop didn't stop with the applause not did it begin there, either. The morning started with a breakfast for the veterans and their guests. Fresh-faced youngsters, as polite as polite can be, were at their beckon call-bringing them beverages, clearing their tables, and asking if they needed any refills.

During the program, BCPS Principal Pennie Allen welcomed the veterans and thanked them for “answering the call of duty.” She added, “You have made our Armed Forces the most respected in the world.” After more tributes to them, she concluded, “As the poet Eve Merriam said, 'I dream of giving birth to a child who asks, Mother, what was war?'”

When the BCHS JROTC presented the flags, the only sounds echoing through the gym were the footsteps of the Color Guard. Voices of young and old blended for the Pledge of Allegiance and a super-talented fifth grader wowed the crowd with her rendition of the National Anthem.

Several students shared meaningful essays and letters expressing their appreciation to the veterans. Then, under the direction of Sarah G. Letterman, second graders-second graders-beautifully sang Bless Our Troops. Do you know how difficult it is to take decent pictures when tears are splashing on your camera lens?

As the veterans introduced themselves, the children presented each one with a hand-decorated gift bag. After the introductions, the song God Bless the U.S.A. ushered in a group of flag-waving third graders who went on stage and gave an uplifting performance of the song Mighty United. Next, the two choruses joined to sing Thankful for the U.S.A. and drew handclapping accompaniment from their fellow students seated on the bleachers.

During a time of sharing, some of the veterans expressed their appreciation to the students and staff for the program while others encouraged the students to consider service in the military. After a moment of silence, which was truly silent, Cindy O'Brien, principal at BCES, offered the closing remarks. She thanked the veterans for coming to the program, for their service, and for helping to teach the students about the importance of PATRIOTISM and the LOVE of country.

Yes, on Monday, I covered my umpteenth Veterans Day program. However, while watching those youngsters so enthusiastically pay tribute to the veterans; pay homage to our country; and, pay respect to all in attendance, I realized those small hands that offered such a thunderous applause to a group of veterans are the same hands that hold the future of this country. Yep, with tears welling in my eyes, I found myself on the receiving end of a very special gift, the gift of hope. Reckon there's any chance I need to restock the tissues I carry in my camera bag? KNOTT MUCH.