BURLINGTON- It was more than an ordinary school assembly: it was an opportunity for children to learn about patriotism and sacrifice from some men who would know.

An honor guard from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6878 in Proctorville joined the students at Burlington Elementary School for an early Veterans Day ceremony.

"We usually have a ceremony on Veterans Day," Principal Mark Christian said. "But usually they're (The VFW Honor Guard) busy that day. We decided to have our ceremony early, and have the full program and tape it. We'll play it back for the students on Veterans Day. Some of the children have never seen the full production with the 21-gun salute."

VFW Post 6878 Commander Albert Baker said he was happy for the chance to inspire the children to love their country and honor their flag.

"We hope they come away with a strong belief in the United States of America and the freedoms we have in the United States. We also hope they come away with more appreciation and understanding of the flag."

VFW Chaplain Earnest Earl told the children that they live in the best country in the world, a nation that God has given us.

"No person in America stands alone. We all stand together, and the more we stand together, the stronger we get," Earl said.