Freedom Walk

Submitted by lindsay.robison on
Attachment Size
walk 1.jpg 2.58 MB
walk2.jpg 3.42 MB
walk 3.jpg 4.18 MB
walk 4.jpg 3.61 MB
walk 5.jpg 4.28 MB
walk 6.jpg 3.72 MB
walk 7.jpg 3.65 MB
walk 8.jpg 4.01 MB
walk 9.jpg 2.73 MB

The Spanish Fork American Legion Post 68 hosted the second annual Freedom Walk at the Spanish Fork Sports Park on May 8 and 9. Members from each of the branches of the military were represented and told stories to nearly 1,250 fifth-graders from 13 schools during the two-day event.

Prior to the walk, each student either interviewed or researched a veteran and wrote a summary of what they learned. One-page summaries and photos of these veterans, many of which are family members, were attached to banners, creating a Wall of Honor which lined the walking route.

During the event, students completed a walk around the park, symbolic of walking in the shoes of the veteran they interviewed or researched. Along the walk were seven stations where Legion members would tell stories and even show items from their service. One student designed a shirt that was worn by all students which read, “We didn’t know them all, but we owe them all.”

Last year’s Freedom Walk was the first, and was conceived by Legion member Richard Johnson as a way to help the youth have a better understanding and appreciation for military veterans. According to Legion members, the walk is unlike any other event organized by the Legion.

“This event allows us to help the kids have a better understanding of and appreciation for the Flag and the sacrifices made by everyone who has served in the military,” said Legion Member Wayne Anderson.

Attributions
Scott Aylett