photo contributed.
(Le Mars) — A Le Mars Community Middle School teacher was given a surprise Wednesday when members of the American Legion Wasmer Post #241 presented a plaque of appreciation in his honor. 8th Grade Social Studies instructor Mark Vonnahme says for several years around Veteran’s Day, he introduces his civics class to the Le Mars Veterans Memorial Park, and to the local Veterans of the American Legion.
Vonnahme says, in general, his students are appreciative of the tour by the Veterans group, and they walk away with a better understanding of the Veterans sacrifices to this nation.
Vonnahme says his students are shown the monuments on the grounds including the poem by Jim Rolfes, “Come Visit My Grave”.
The Le Mars Community teacher is appreciative of the recognition, but adds, its the Veterans that need to be thanked.
Attending the plaque presentation at the Le Mars Veterans Park were members of the American Legion Board of Directors that included: Herman “Bud” Vanderwell, Gary Konz, Pat Murphy, Jack Frus, Tom Tanhoff, and Wayne Schipper. Board member Jim Rolfes was unable to attend the plaque presentation.