Munhall Elementary School students received a lesson in history and technology this month when they came up with a plan to honor members of the military.

"We wanted to be able to show the sheer numbers of people close to us who serve our country," said Rita Henning, fourth-grade teacher and student council sponsor. "I hope that all Munhall students realize how our families and friends have contributed to the service of our country."

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Munhall student Claire Rathslag views a photo of a veteran that was turned in by a classmate at the St. Charles school. The students are working on a video in honor of Veterans Day.
(Jane Donahue/For Sun-Times Medi

Inspired by Veterans Day, members of the St. Charles school's student council are creating a video to honor those involved with the armed forces. Staff and students were asked to submit photos of friends or family members who have served in the military, along with their names and details of their area of service.

Garrett Vandermyde, 10, had two special entries.

"My dad was in the Air Force and my grandpa was in the Navy," said the fifth-grade student. "This video is about thanking those who fought for us and protected our country, and it's giving them a pat on the back if they are still fighting for us."

The video, which pays tribute to about 75 veterans and current military personnel, will be broadcast on Veterans Day. Henning said the project was also an opportunity to use the school's new television equipment that can project student-developed programs into all the classrooms.

"We wanted to utilize the newest technology available to our school," Henning said. "We thought it would be a great opportunity to let the student council members use this new technology to develop their skills."

Fifth-grade teacher and student council sponsor Pam Hall hopes the video helps students remember the important role veterans have played in history.

"Many people have a family member, either in the military or retired from the military," said Hall, who has two children who have served their country. "We should all be humbled by what some military men and women have given up to protect the rest of us."

Garrett had another idea.

"The video might inspire students to protect our country."