Among the many lessons Lincoln Elementary School students learned during a Veterans Day assembly held at the school Nov. 9 was that freedom is, most certainly, not free.

The ceremony, which honored Emmaus veterans in particular, began as the children – students in kindergarten through fifth grade – stood in respect as members of American Legion Post 191 presented the colors. The entire assembly – featuring many veterans and parents or relatives of students who were veterans – then placed their right hand over their hearts and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

The students learned about how Veterans Day came into existence, and in particular about some of the many Emmaus veterans who were engaged in fighting during various 20th century wars and conflicts. Some of those veterans included were Nathan Gray, Russell Kerstetter, John Sicker, Robert Giering, Russell Fellman, Paul Frantz and George Wentz. The students didn’t just listen. They also were involved in some of the teaching. Roughly one dozen of them took to a stage and read about how each branch of the United States military was formed and the responsibilities held by each branch.

The patriotic ceremony also featured music. The students sang along with “A Grateful Nation” and a rousing piano-led version of “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” The ceremony also featured the playing of the theme song for each branch of the military. When each tune was played, any member of that branch in attendance at the ceremony was encouraged to stand.

The ceremony concluded with the playing of taps.