Published: September 05, 2008 07:55 pm      

Hubbard honors America

Hubbard Independent School District began a new tradition last year, in order to commemorate Sept. 11, 2001.

The Second Annual America Supports You Freedom Walk will held this Thursday, beginning at 9 a.m. in Hubbard.

“The purpose of this event is to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy in America and at the same time, pay tribute to our veterans, past and present,” said Donna Riddle, organizer and teacher at Hubbard Elementary School. “The walk will begin at 9:15 a.m. with students and staff members from Hubbard ISD campuses walking to the site of the historic helicopter that was flown during the Vietnam War located on Highway 31 and the corner of Cypress Street. All students and staff members will wear red, white or blue T-shirts to show their support.”

A patriotic program, done entirely by students either reading or singing, will begin at 9:45 a.m. after the groups from each campus have arrived. Anyone is welcome to participate in the walk.

The America Supports You Freedom Walk was created in 2005 by the Pentagon, in order to commemorate the attack on the Pentagon and honor all the lives lost on September 11, 2001. Since then, it has grown, with over 255 Freedom Walks of various types and sizes held across the United States.

“Our first Freedom walk was a tremendous success with over 500 students, staff and members of the community participating,” Riddle said. “We do this to help teach patriotism to the students of Hubbard ISD, and to honor those people who make America a safer place to live. I believe in teaching students to respect others, young and old, and to become better citizens. I believe and teach giving back to the community where you live.”

If you are a veteran and would like to be included on the list of approximately 32 veterans Riddle has compiled thus far to be honored at the Freedom Walk, please contact her by Sept. 8 by calling (254) 576-2536, or calling the school at (254) 576-2359.

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Deanna Brown may be contacted via e-mail at deanna@corsicanadailysun.com