From: Rebecca Thomas, Communications Coordinator
Autauga County Schools
In honor of Veterans Day, Autauga County Schools (ACS) partnered with the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA) to produce a heartfelt video tribute featuring students reading letters they wrote to local veterans. The collaborative project highlights the gratitude and respect of ACS students for the men and women who have served our nation.
The video, titled Letters to Local Heroes, showcases elementary students sharing personal messages of appreciation, reflecting on the sacrifices of veterans, and expressing what service means to them — some of which are military-connected families themselves. The project not only commemorates Veterans Day but also serves as an educational experience, teaching students the importance of civic responsibility and honoring those who protect our freedoms.
“It’s inspiring to see students actively honoring our veterans and demonstrating that gratitude and respect can start at a young age,” Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton said. “When communities come together to honor and support our veterans, it sends a powerful message, and partnerships like this ensure Alabama’s proud tradition of honoring our heroes remains strong and vibrant. We are deeply grateful to Autauga County Schools and Superintendent Lyman Woodfin for being a welcoming and collaborative partner in support of Alabama’s 400,000 veterans.”
ACS Superintendent Lyman Woodfin also expressed his appreciation for the partnership and the opportunity it provided students to connect with Alabama’s veteran community. “Our students’ letters and voices carry heartfelt messages of respect and gratitude,” Woodfin said. “We are proud to partner with the ADVA in honoring our veterans and helping our students understand the impact of service and sacrifice.”
