For 71 years, a stone marker with nine names of soldiers from the Matoaca area who died for their country during World War II has rested on the front lawn of Matoaca Elementary School. To honor veterans on Veterans Day, music teacher Leah Kovack organized an outdoor program for the school surrounding the marker.
The program involved the children singing the national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner,” “America,” and “March of Freedom.” Parents and community members attended the event.
“My goal is for every single one of my students to know ‘The Star Spangled Banner,’” said Kovack.
Inside the school, a photo of soldiers, dated June 2, 1946, hangsfrom the area sitting on the lawn of the school for a Memorial Day parade.
“We have so much history here,” said Mary Thrift, principal. “It is an honor to be a part of all of it.”
