Carol Stream students to visit with veterans

When Ron Jones served in the Marines during the late 1980s and early 1990s, he wasn't seeking personal recognition. But now that he has left the service, receiving some sure does feel good.

Jones will be one of about 20 veterans at Roy DeShane Elementary School in Carol Stream Wednesday, Nov. 10, for a daylong program. Visit with a Veteran celebrates Veterans Day and gives students in the elementary school a chance to meet area vets in person.

“It makes you feel very special for that day because you feel, what you have done for their rights and freedoms, it makes it well worth it,” Jones said. “The veterans, they enjoy going to these schools and answering questions about what it's like and what do you have to do. Veterans Day is my day to be with my brothers and sisters.”

The program will begin with a morning assembly that will include musical performances, singing and dancing from the elementary school students. After an early afternoon luncheon, the veterans, who are expected to attend from several area communities including Schaumburg, Wheaton and Glendale Heights, will then set up shop in classrooms and meet with students individually.

The veterans will bring medals, photos and other memorabilia to share with the students.

“It's so overwhelmingly wonderful to be appreciated because there are a lot of men and women out there who sacrificed more than I have,” Jones said.

Wanda Franz, who has helped organize Veterans Day activities at the school for 12 years, said the program has become more meaningful since the school began inviting veterans in 2007.

“It's to impress upon them how important freedom is to us and who we have to thank for it,” she said. “You want them to understand at an early age that we do live in the best country in the world and freedom is a gift. Because we live in the U.S. we have this freedom and they can grow up and be anything they want.”

The Carol Stream police and fire department's color guard will be on hand, as will a portion of Glenbard North High School's band.

“It's because of a person we call a veteran who is willing to leave home and family and go to dangerous places,” Franz said, “that we have rights and their freedoms.”