Wake Preparatory Academy students to lay wreath at Tomb of Unknown Soldier
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- A group of eighth-grade students at Wake Preparatory Academy will travel to Arlington National Cemetery to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
"They deserve all the acknowledgment that they're getting, and even though they don't have loved ones or family who can be there for them, I'm glad that we can be," said Stella Hurd, a student.
"Because of them, we are free today. We get the freedoms we have. Just remembering what they did is really important in honoring them," explained student Natasha Barnes.
"It's our time to make sure that they get the love and support that they deserved," added student Lillian Armstrong.
The students were chosen as a result of an essay focused on being a good citizen.
"Students tied in our schools "RAISE" values - respect, accountability, integrity, service and excellence - and kind of weaved that into what does it look like to take that out into the country to make a broader impact on our town, state, country," said Wake Prep Academy Assistant Director Dr. Timothy Benson.
All four students have family members who have served in the military.
"My greatest hope for every student going on our trip is that they'll learn and see their role as a citizen, that they will understand that a little bit better when they come back, that they'll understand how to play a more active role in our country," said Benson.
This is the second year Wake Preparatory Academy is sending a contingent of students to Arlington for a wreath-laying ceremony.
"I think that the sacrifice itself may not be remembered, but the effects of it always will," said student Brad Enderlin.
