KIDS’ COMMENTS: It sometimes takes a child’s point of view to
put things in their proper perspective.

We got a big kick out of the many cards Elmer DeLucia received,
more than 100 in all, after speaking to students at St. Bernard
School about his experiences in World War II.

Elmer, a bona fide hero of World War II, has much to talk about
from the Normandy Invasion to the Battle of the Bulge — and beyond.
Over the years, he has shared his memories with many groups of
students.

The St. Bernard students had hand-drawn and lettered the cards,
and many included patriotic artwork such as a flags waving in the
breeze. Some were camouflage colored. One had an airplane with USA
written on the sides, orange flames shooting out the back. Cannons
and swords, eagles and cracked liberty bells were also drawn on the
thank-you notes.

Katrina wrote, “Thank you for being in the service.
Congratulations on your award. I feel so sorry about your two
brothers.”

Brianna wrote, “I’m sorry to here about your two brothers but it
is OK cause they’re in Heaven now. … You’re awesome.”

(Elmer’s two brothers, who also served in World War II, have
passed away.)

One student made a pop-up card that included, for some unknown
reason, a drawing of a flying squirrel, and these words of
encouragement: “Your like a hero to us so please do not give
up!”

Cara wrote: “Thank you for fighting for my country and my
freedom. I know America will forever be thankful because of you and
others like you.”

Several students had the same theme — “Thank you for saving the
earth.” “Thank you for saving our country.”  “You made my life so
much safer.”

Katie wrote: “If there was just one person serving for us, where
do you think we would be? People volunteered to serve for us.
Taking time out of your life to serve for us. Chances of being
killed but you didn’t care. So thank you for freedom and life.”

Brooke wrote, “Thank you for fighting in World War II. Thank you
for fighting for our country and freedom and for America. You made
a great sacrifice.”

Kristen wrote, “We appreciate all your sacrifices and your
bravery for us. We love the gift you have given us and that is
freedom.”