As we reflect on Memorial Day and the many ways our students connect with and serve the Colville community, we wanted to share this powerful reflection written by CHS art teacher Tracey Delyea following a recent service project at the cemetery alongside local veterans.
“Found one!” comes a shout. A tick on the clipboard with a grease pencil. “Do you know what Hezbollah is? They attacked us.” Handing a flag. “Here’s one, the Navy. Wow, they lived a long life. I wish I knew him.” “I worked on a submarine.” “I’ve never been to the graveyard, ever!” “I was here last week, that’s my Grandma over there.”
These are just a few of the many phrases I heard as my students were placing flags on the graves of service members on Thursday morning at the cemetery. My Art, Drawing, Photography, Advanced Placement & Printmaking students helped local Veterans of Foreign Wars, Kelly O’Keeffe Post with their annual tradition.
We learned about flag etiquette, different branches of service & what it means to be a member of the Colville community. The main lesson was the importance of remembering & appreciating our service members who have gone before us not only on Memorial Day but everyday.
Thank you to all who have served on behalf of myself & my students.
— Tracey M. Delyea