Glenbard students make valentines for troops, injured vets
Dozens of Glenbard East High School students dedicated some of their time after school Wednesday to show a little love for those who have dedicated themselves to our country.
For its annual Valentines for Vets event, each of Glenbard High School District 87's four schools gave students an opportunity to create valentines for those in the military and hospitalized veterans.
At Glenbard East in Lombard, dozens of students worked at tables packed with red, pink and purple construction paper and other supplies to decorate their heartfelt messages.
"I think it's really important for our students to be able to connect somehow with the people who are protecting them each and every day, to show their gratitude," Spanish teacher and club sponsor Jan Reece said.
Glenbard East senior Safia Khan said Wednesday marked her second year participating in the craft activity.
"I keep coming back because it gives me a good feeling, knowing that we can give some vets a smile on their face by making them valentines," Khan said. "A little card here and there, that can make a big difference."
Sophomore Donny Dukes, whose older brother is training to be a Marine, also stayed after school to make valentines.
"I just feel like there are so many people that do so much for us that we don't even know about and don't even see," Dukes said, "So the least we can do is give them some appreciation and some credit for what they've done for us."
Freshman Chloe Whitlaw attended the event and said those who are in the military are her heroes.
"(They're my heroes) because they serve our country, and they try their best to protect us from any forces that are coming for us," Whitlaw said. "They practically die for us. For that I am forever grateful."