SPIRIT LAKE - Michael Hall became teary-eyed reflecting about how Spirit Lake Elementary students saluted veterans on Tuesday.

"I love the fact that they do this," said Hall, an Air Force and Vietnam veteran, after the ceremony. "We gave up a lot and we didn't mind doing it. But it's sure nice when people are appreciative."

About 65 veterans - each given the microphone to state their name, the branch of the military they served in and when - attended the ceremony, which included patriotic songs, poems and essays from the students.

The assembly was one of several held at schools throughout Kootenai County on Tuesday to salute the services and sacrifices made by veterans.

Spirit Lake Elementary sixth-grader Pierse Sheetz, whose dad and grandpa served in the Army, was among the sixth-grade students who read their essays about Veterans Day.

"Today is a day of hope, respect, gratitude and freedom," he said. "Veterans Day helps us realize who has served our country. They are the ones who help us sleep better at night. They are responsible for our peaceful, privileged lives.

"It takes a tremendous amount of bravery to join the United States military, and I am very proud of their sacrifice and service for our country."

Another student, Peyton Lindley, said veterans fought for millions of people they don't even know.

"Because of them and their sacrifices, we can choose any career we desire, have a car and get an education," she said.

Vets will humbly tell you that they were simply doing their job, said Michael Miller, another Spirit Lake student.

"Nevertheless, these brave men and women put themselves in the line of fire and have saved many lives," he said.

Logan James, in Kris Schwalbach's class, said naming all of the wars makes one realize how much has been sacrificed for the country.

"That is a lot of war; that is a lot of people," he said. "Many did not come home; many had their lives forever changed. That is why we should show our respect for all they and their families have given."

Pat Coffey, who served in the Army Reserves from 1963 to 1969, attended the ceremony with grandson and fifth-grader Trevor Cady.

"We may be veterans, but we're also proud of the veterans who served before us to preserve the country," Coffey said. "This is my third or fourth year of coming, and I'm grateful for the young people who honor us and understand what Veterans Day is about.

"The United States is great all over, but us rednecks in North Idaho do understand how important Veterans Day is. I'm proud to be a North Idaho redneck."

Navy veteran Terry O'Reilly said the assembly was a humbling experience. After the assembly, he wrote the name of his family members who are veterans on a poster as school staff had requested.

"It's important that these kids know how this country came about, why we go to war and why we vote," O'Reilly said. "This was really heartwarming."