"Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices."
By hosting this USO Tribute, the students are able to interact in a one-on-one manner with the veterans and home front volunteers of WWII. History has meaning when the students are able to intermingle with those who made history.
This event also brings the young generation into contact with this older, senior citizen generation. Students learn how to shake hands, introduce themselves, wait on and serve drinks and food to the guests. All of this helps develop character and helps the students show appreciation towards others. The students learn to give something to others and not ask for anything in return.
By talking with the veterans at the USO Tribute, the students gain first hand knowledge from the guests, and they develop an appreciation for what they went through to maintain our way of life. This is the first time many of the students have met a WWII veteran.
Each year, many students find out they have a relative who served in WWII, and the student did not even know it. New relationships have begun as a result.