Young students at P.S. 84 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn met and thanked local military officers at a special event organized by Learning Through an Expanded Arts Program (LeAp)'s after-school program.
On Jan. 27, students in the LeAp after-school program at Public School 84 gathered for a military appreciation event. Military personnel were invited to meet with the students and be honored for what they do to serve and protect their country. In return, the students were enlightened by first-hand experiences and stories of life in the military.
The event kicked off with students reciting the Pledge of Allegiance alongside Captain Christina Mouradjian and Staff Sergeant Patrick Dickens, both currently stationed at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn. Captain Mouradjian then led the assembly in singing "God Bless America," and Staff Sergeant Dickens, a food inspector with Public Health Command, held a Q&A with the students. The students were engaged and curious, asking questions like, "When will war end?"; "Do you get to see and spend time with your family?"; and "What countries have you seen on your travels?"
At the close of the assembly, Captain Mouradjian led the group in singing the “Star Spangled Banner.” Students then approached and presented the speakers with thank-you cards and joined them for a light reception, including a cake the students made in honor of the officers.
The children were invited to visit Fort Hamilton this spring.
The LeAp after-school program at P.S. 84, led by site director Karen Murk, serves more than 150 children in the Williamsburg area throughout the year, providing music, dance, and art-based academic and enrichment programs.
