NEW BERLIN – Veterans were cheered and offered up a heart-felt “thank you” from some of America’s budding citizens at the Unadilla Valley Elementary School’s annual Veterans Day program on Monday.

Dozens of veterans from every branch of the armed services were invited to take part in the ceremony. According to administrators, the event held in the auditorium Monday morning served a two-fold purpose: to recognize those who served; and to teach students about the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.