Maureen Fennessy — who is the elementary director in the English Language Arts/Social Science department for Lynnfield Public Schools — in coordination with Lynnfield American Legion Post 131 Commander Thomas Bogart, spoke at a student assembly at both the Huckleberry Hill School and the Summer Street School on Friday, Jan. 23.
Lynnfield American Legion Post 131, in order to promote patriotism and Americanism, has donated educational comic books entitled “Our Country’s Flag” to every third-grader in the Summer Street School and the Huckleberry Hill School as part of Lynnfield Public School’s Social Studies program. Each student also received a hand-held American flag.
Designed by the American Legion National Headquarters, the 16-page educational comic book, intended specifically for third-grade students, promotes respect for the flag by explaining its meaning, history, and proper treatment.
According to The American Legion, “its history is our history. Its spirit is our spirit. When we respect the flag, we respect the men and women who sacrificed to build this country and protect our freedom. When we honor the flag, think of the glorious freedoms we enjoy as Americans.”
Nearly 200 third-graders listened to the speakers who spoke about honoring the fag, our country, and its veterans. Bogart emphasized to the students that “freedom is not free. Military service members and their families have made tremendous sacrifices on our country’s behalf throughout our history. All of us would do well to remember their service.”
Fennessy said, “Students were briefly introduced to the American flag as an important national symbol and learned that community organizations, including veterans’ groups, play a role in preserving history and serving others. We are grateful to American Legion Post 131 for their generosity and their continued support of our school community. Thank you for your partnership as we support meaningful home- school connections.”
