KANNAPOLIS — Hank Robson and George Kafka, two Marine Corps veterans, spoke to an enraptured group of third graders at Shady Brook Elementary School in Kannapolis on Thursday afternoon. The event was in honor of Veterans Day, “one of the most important and prestigious days we can celebrate,” Kafka said.

The two shared stories from their terms of service, talked about the importance of duty to God, family and country and showed the group the proper way to fold an American flag.

The flag folding was a solemn moment as Robson explained that folded flags had often been draped over the coffins of those who had fallen, and were presented a solider’s next of kin after his or her death. While the two made each of the thirteen folds, teacher Melissa Little walked students through the meaning and symbolism behind each.

The two encouraged students, telling them that they are the leaders of tomorrow.

“It’s all about freedom. It’s all about courage. It’s all about leadership,” Kafka said.

—Rebecca Rider