Members of the youth group at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church turned a Veterans celebration into a moment of reflection and gratitude, honoring veterans in their congregation with a heartfelt project.
Over the past month, the youth paired up to interview veterans, learning about their service, accomplishments, and personal stories. The information was showcased on small canvases, each featuring a photo, details of their service, and reflections on their faith during and after their time in the military.
The creations were presented during a special service Wednesday night, with family and friends in attendance. A community dinner followed.
Veterans were touched by the initiative.

“The kids genuinely seemed interested to learn about each of our time in the service,” said Kyle Elenkiwich, who served in maintenance with an attack squadron that flew off carriers during Vietnam. He went on to serve 28 years in Air Guard.
“I felt like it was very powerful, especially hearing their stories,” said one of the youth, Aly Schepel.
“It gave me perspective on how they worked hard and how much they went through to help our country.”
Sadie Iott agreed.
“We don’t even think about this in our everyday lives until it’s Veterans Day… you do that for one day, and then you go back to your normal life. I think it’s good to think about it more often.”
Church secretary and veteran Beth Wesala, who served 31 years in the Army, called the effort moving.
“These kids are great,” she said.
Elenkiwich agreed, adding that if the students take something more from the experience, he hopes it’s this: “If they get to join the service, I hope they see that they can have a rewarding career and get to do as much as I got to do.”