As first kindergarten and then first grade Daisy Girl Scouts, Troop 58465 proudly marched in the Vergennes Memorial Day parade. We learned about the meaning of the parade and walked the long parade route even though it was very hot out and our legs got tired. We wanted to show our gratitude for the men and women who lost their lives serving our country.

We handed out flowers to veterans and active duty service members we spotted in the crowd because we believe that honoring their living brothers and sisters in arms is a way to show respect for those who did not make it home.

Since we could not march last year and can’t again this year, our troop agreed to write this letter to the editor to publicly show how much we appreciate the sacrifices of the fallen and the friends, families, and fellow service members they left behind. Here are some of our words:

•  We appreciated marching in the parade to honor the fallen the two years that we were able to do it. We are writing this letter to encourage other people to show that they are grateful for people who sacrificed their lives for our country. ~Tess

•  We owe our country to you and those who have fallen for the lives of us. ~Cici

•  Thank you for helping our country become a better place. ~Gretchen

•  I am so grateful for the men and women who have fought for our country. They are our country’s true heroes. ~Logan

•  Thank you for your sacrifice. ~Lily

Respectfully and with much gratitude,

Brownie Troop No. 58465

Addison, Ferrisburgh, Panton, Vergennes and Waltham