MOUNT GILEAD — Inspired by former President George Bush’s book, “Portraits of Courage,” a collection of essays and paintings about veterans, Mrs. Robin Conrad invited area veterans to join her fourth grade art classes to model for the student’s drawings.
They also shared their experiences in the service with Park Avenue Elementary School students.
While the students were drawing the portraits, they interviewed them so they could create a short biographical essay to be displayed with the finished portraits.
Several veterans shared their stories with fourth grade classes. Students asked questions and the veteran responded. The students learned the veterans deserve our gratitude, respect and interest. They also learned about the living conditions during service, camaraderie, patriotism loyalty and love for home and family.
Veterans participating included Rachelle Newson, U.S. Air Force; William Brown, U.S. Army; Ron Chapman, U.S. Air Force; Roger Rayburn, U.S. Marines; Tom Pfeiffer and Chrissie Williams, U.S. Navy and Brian Hadberg, U.S. Army National Guard.
