Irene King Students Write 'Thank You' Letters to Veterans

ROMEOVILLE, IL - Some young students are honoring veterans with touching letters and a meal to popular restaurant chain.

As part of a student community service project this school year, fourth grade teachers at Irene King Elementary School in Romeoville are partnering up with Applebee’s Restaurant in Joliet for a good cause.

Through the partnership, on Veterans Day, vets can get a free meal, and with the meal comes a 'Thank You' card from a fourth grader at Irene King.

Here are are just a few of the heartwarming messages that some of the fourth graders wrote in the cards to local veterans:

• "Dear veteran, I hope you are doing well. I appreciate your dedication. You're my hero. Happy Veteran's Day," wrote Serenity Moore, a fourth grader who attends the school.
• "Dear veteran, thank you for keeping us safe. I have a question for you. What is it like seeing your family again? It must be fun. Enjoy your food and drinks," wrote fourth grader, Dylan Fickett
• "Dear veteran, thank you for serving our country. If you are in the army, air force, navy or marines, thank you for keeping us safe. Thank you for risking your life for us. Thank you for serving our country. God bless you. Enjoy your day," wrote fourth grader, Martiza Ortiz.
• "Dear heroic veteran, thank you for protecting our country. You're a hero to all of our country and more. I am thankful that there are people like you who risk their lives to protect others. That takes bravery that most people don't have, but you do," wrote fourth grader, Malek Abutaleb.
• "Dear veteran, thank you for protecting me, and the United States of America. Happy Veteran's Day," wrote fourth grader, Ray'quan Chadon Thomas.
• "Dear veteran, I am so happy that you are alive. You helped our community and country. I hope you continue to serve. Thank you for all you've done. I think you are the best person the country could have," wrote fourth grader, Amelia Picchi.

Watch the video to hear some of the fourth graders read their letters:

This partnership was initiated by Irene King fourth graders teachers Danielle Allen, Tricia Boese, Sarah Duffy, Katie Novak and Kerri Poniatowski.