Students at R.F. Pettigrew Elementary recently had the chance to learn an important lesson in American civics—proper flag etiquette. Fourth graders welcomed veterans from VFW Post 628, who shared both the history and the deeper meaning of the American flag. From learning about the design and evolution of the stars and stripes to understanding why the flag is treated with such care, students gained valuable insight from those who have lived its significance firsthand.
An American flag waves proudly in front of every Sioux Falls public school, but visits like this remind students that the flag is more than just a symbol on a pole. Hearing directly from veterans who served our country gave students a personal perspective on why the flag is respected and what it represents. As our nation moves closer to its 250th anniversary, lessons like these help students connect with a shared tradition of perseverance, honor, and respect. The visit left Pettigrew fourth graders with a stronger appreciation for the values the flag represents—and a better understanding of the stories behind it.
