Each year, the Veterans Memorial Foundation invites every fifth-grade class within Worcester County to experience a field trip to the actual Memorial site in Ocean Pines. While there, the students participate in a comprehensive tour and three part informational program featuring different aspects of the Memorial. Its purpose is to create and foster an awareness and appreciation for veterans and the tremendous sacrifices they have made to protect and preserve the freedoms we enjoy in the United States of America.
Prior to the Field Trip, students view our video Heroes All, and receive a 34-page booklet, that they are encouraged to share with their families. Throughout each rotation, students are encouraged to share their stories of friends and family who have served in the military.
After a short welcome and introduction, the students are divided into 3 groups, that include The Memorial and Veterans Stories, Flag Folding and Etiquette and the Patriots Pathway.
The Memorial and Veterans Stories: This group of students is split into smaller groups and assigned a docent who discusses the Memorial layout, the military branches and commemorative pavers. Docents also share their personal military story, or that of a family member, or friend.
Flag Folding and Etiquette: These students are divided into 2 groups. One group interacts with a docent to learn about the history of the U.S. flag and some of its notable variations. Students participate in a discussion of flag etiquette and the proper way to display the flag. The other group works with local NJROTC cadets who demonstrate the proper way to fold the American flag. The students are then given the opportunity to practice folding the flag.
The Patriots Pathway: This group of students is divided into 3 or 4 smaller groups, each with a docent to guide them as they walk the Patriots Pathway, viewing the individual plaques while learning about the history of specific American conflicts from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Maryland’s role and contributions in the conflicts, along with the significance of The Battlefield Cross, the Empty Chair, and a panel from The Wall That Heals are additional points of interest and discussion.
Students rotate stations every 20 minutes. After the groups complete all activities, they reassemble within the Memorial. Students are thanked for their participation and are invited to return with their families for an upcoming event.