Fisk Elementary and Middle School students gathered Wednesday to honor and thank area veterans during their Veterans Day assembly.
Thirteen veterans, ranging in service from a year to 25 years, sat proudly before the student body to observe and listen as the school showed its appreciation.
"The fact they take the time to honor and appreciate veterans is great," Air Force veteran Chester Royse said.
Royse served in the Air Force for 25 years. While serving, he was deployed to the "far east." During that time, he said he had three children at home.
Royse officially retired in 1988 and now has another daughter at home who is very proud of her father.
Charolette Royse, an eighth grade student at Fisk, smiled and stood proudly next to her father as the entire school shook the hands of each of the 13 veterans and thanked them for their service.
"It felt amazing seeing my dad honored," Charolette said. "He is an amazing dad."
Royse said he is planning to attend next year's assembly, but will probably go to the high school, since his daughter will be there then.
"Many of the veterans who are represented during the ceremony are relatives of the students," Fisk Elementary and Middle School Counselor Heather Eddy said. "They are so proud of them. You can see it all over their faces."
A video was shown to conclude the assembly featuring service men and women while they were deployed. It also showcased many families celebrating returning soldiers with hugs and tears of joy.
Fisk student council members organized and ran the assembly under the supervision of their sponsor, Landon Ham.
The students led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance and national anthem.
Fisk Elementary and Middle School Principal Leean Mann said the school wanted to honor and recognize those who served to protect our freedoms as well as show appreciation for the sacrifices made for all citizens.
"Our students are so young, they don't realize that our veterans' service allows our students the opportunities they have today educationally and socially," Manan said.