MOSES LAKE - Donned in red, white and blue, Knolls Vista Elementary School students honored veterans at a school-wide assembly Friday.

The assembly began with opening remarks by Principal Nikki Mackey, who then led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Knolls Vista staff member Carlyn Galbreath sang the Star Spangled Banner a cappella followed by the presentation of colors by the Moses Lake Police Department Honor Guard Officers Ray Lopez and Matt Harum.

Seven third-grade students recited a poem written by Cheryl Dyson entitled "Veterans Day," which starts, "We honor all, who answered to a service call," and ends with "though we may not know each name, we thank all veterans just the same."

"This is a very important day that used to be called Armistice Day when World War I ended, Nov. 11, 1918 at 11:11 a.m.," said third grade student Clarissa Delapena. "We are pretty fortunate to live in freedom and go to school in the United States."

Staff Sgt. Justin Morris, of the National Guard, talked to the students and recognized the Moses Lake Fire Department and the Moses Lake police for their heroism on 9/11. Sgt. Morris personally handed the firefighters, police officers and all veterans, present at the assembly, a coin in recognition of their honor, duty, valor and loyalty to their country. The students, staff and visitors gave the honored veterans a standing ovation.

Police officers Matt Harum and Adam Munro talked to the students about their experiences in Iraq and in serving our country.

Only 10 percent of the U.S. population are veterans, so it is vitally important that the other 90 percent show their support. Without the support of family and community, our all-volunteer military would not be possible.

The retiring of the colors was followed by a video portraying the five branches of military. After the assembly, some veterans visited a third-grade classroom and, with pictures, clothing and artifacts they had brought, told students about their experiences.

"I am appreciative and proud to be living in this country and hope that the students will take the message from the assembly to heart," Mackey said.