DAVENPORT, Iowa -
Hundreds of Davenport North students pass a giant American flag on Tuesday.
"They need to see what our flag stands for," said Marilyn Korthaus Riley, whose son, Sgt. Bradley Korthaus, died in Iraq on March 24, 2003.
Each step leads to a lesson about service and sacrifice.
"We do care," said Tyler Bishop, 15, who helped to organize the Veterans Honor Assembly. "We do appreciate that you fought for us."
Through music and messages, they come to learn.
"The biggest thing, I think, when you first lose your child in war, is that they'll be forgotten," said Jane Cox.
Her son, Staff Sgt. Nathan Cox, was killed in action eight years ago.
While Gold Star families can't forget, teens who were tots back then need a reminder.
"I hope they understand that every day is a blessing," Marilyn said.
Each flag symbolizes those blessings. It's part of a lasting tribute at their school.
A special banner will honor Davenport students who made the ultimate sacrifice.
"This is what the United States was based on, 'In God We Trust,'" Marilyn continued.
A tribute to the fallen that's elegant and poignant.
"They did a beautiful job," Jane said. "This community has been over the top with continuing to remember our fallen."
After losing so much, families are finding something, too.
"For that, I'm forever grateful," Jane concluded.
They're grateful for a caring school that remembers their children's legacy.