St. Olaf students honor veterans

Courtesy of St. Olaf School

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BOUNTIFUL — Lining the hallway of St. Olaf School, the “Hall of Heroes” honors all veterans, those who have served or are serving from the school and parish communities.  

“This tribute wasn’t just about St. Olaf students honoring veterans,” said Dawn Flynn, a recently retired Army colonel and parent of a St. Olaf student, who spearheaded the school’s veterans’ efforts during November. “The unforeseen emotional part for me was witnessing the excitement in the students as they ‘discovered’ the veterans in their family and community.”

Colonel Flynn, along with Air Force veteran and St. Olaf middle-school teacher Mrs. Cathy Ornburn, visited every classroom to discuss the significance of Veterans Day. Information sheets were sent home with students, seeking family members or community members who were veterans.

With the support of Fr. Rene Rodillas, pastor of St. Olaf Parish, students spoke at all the Masses, inviting parishioners to participate in the school event.

Veterans and their families provided photos, service data and memorabilia for the Hall of Heroes. Art teacher Mrs. Kathy Dorich had the students make more than 300 streamers with individual messages for the veterans.  

The culminating event honoring the veterans took place during the Nov. 21 St. Olaf Thanksgiving Feast. The elementary students made place mats thanking the veterans and current military members for their service. Music teacher Mr. Radu Noaghiu taught the students patriotic songs that were sung during the feast. A video played throughout the celebration, honoring each individual veteran who submitted information.  

“Sometimes it can be a challenge for the older generation to connect with the younger generation, but this veterans’ tribute provided an avenue in building and strengthening relationships between generations ... their stories are being shared ... heard ... and remembered,” Colonel Flynn said.  

Courtesy of St. Olaf School