SMCA’s chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society was established three years ago. The members are always eager to work on projects that honor and help social organizations as well as our school.

NEHS’s first project of the 2018-2019 school year was to honor our veterans with “Sweats for Vets”. Donations of sweat shirts and sweat pants will be donated to the Commanders Closet of Charlotte Hall Veteran’s Home.

Our members dedicated themselves to spreading word of their mission. They spoke out in their classes, at home, and in their communities. Some members went class to class. Some stood in the cold, rain, and snow to hold posters to remind drivers to donate. More importantly, they wanted to spread the word of honoring and thanking our veterans.

The project culminated with a special elementary chapel that featured Maj. Robert Hendry, who served 23 years in our military, including the war in Vietnam. He spoke of what it’s like to be in the military, as well as how their families dealt with their time in service. Maj. Hendry talked about how he fought and was injured during wartime and the effects it has on his life today. Most important, he spoke of how the military fought and continues to fight for the freedoms we enjoy in the United States. We were reminded in many ways to honor and thank those who have fought and continue to fight for our beautiful country.

By the end of the program, 87 sweat shirts and 93 sweat pants were donated. What a blessing! Keep in mind, when you see a toy soldier, say a prayer of thanks and protection for our military past and present. When you see a veteran, thank them for their service. May God bless them all.

-Lisa Beymer