Lincoln, Neb. — Zeman Elementary School marked Veteran’s Day with a special lunch that invited local veterans to sit with students in the cafeteria. It was the school’s first ever event of this kind, and teachers say it will become an annual tradition.
Students learn from lived experience
During the lunch, students had the chance to ask veterans about their service, hear firsthand accounts of deployment, and express gratitude for the sacrifices made by military families. The interactive format turned a simple meal into a living history lesson, reinforcing the community’s respect for those who protect our freedoms.
Veterans share personal stories
U.S. Army veteran James Tessier spoke about his own deployment and the support his family received from teachers and parents while he was away. “I was deployed a few years ago and a lot of the teachers and parents helped rally around my family while I was gone,” Tessier said. He added that he looks forward to meeting another young student whose father is currently deployed, emphasizing the ongoing bond between the school and military families.
Planning for future gatherings
Principal John Zeman said the positive response from students, staff and veterans has already set the stage for next year’s lunch. “We’re thrilled that our students got to meet real heroes and hear their stories,” Zeman explained. “We’re already working on expanding the program so more veterans can join us and more students can benefit from this experience.”
Community support underscores the event
The lunch was organized with help from local veteran organizations and community volunteers who provided the food and set up the space. Their involvement reflects Lincoln’s broader commitment to honoring service members and fostering intergenerational connections.
By bringing veterans into the classroom, Zeman Elementary not only celebrated Veteran’s Day but also reinforced values of patriotism, gratitude, and civic responsibility—principles that align with the town’s strong family and faith traditions.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
