Yesterday, if you were to drive by the First Baptist Church in Kemp during lunchtime, you would have seen a sight in the parking lot in the form of what looked like a town hall with all the key players involved.

So many vehicles. A Kemp school bus, Seven Points Police Department, Kemp Police Department, City of Kemp, Kaufman County and the list goes on.

This event, was designated for the 3rd annual Military and First Responders Luncheon, hosted by the Kemp Intermediate school’s student Council. Every year for the past 3, these students, honor of all the Veterans and First Responders that can attend.

The kids were super aware of themselves and showed the utmost respect as they made sure they held each other accountable in the way they lined up to greet. When each person came up, the kids were ready to shake hands and show respect to those who are serving our community in some capacity where each of these kids live in.

Each attendee was escorted to a room set up with plenty of seating and food for days! With the room as full of life and energy as it was, I am sure each kid went home feeling like they made a difference. And they did, by the good gesture of a home cooked meal.

Each student took on a different responsibility and interacted with not only each other, but every human in the room. Every detail that went into play to create this honoring moment shined and each child moved about the room with intent and diligence to cater. The attention to detail and flow of this event, showed the love and investment the teachers showed towards the children in planning and including them.

Mr. Sullivan has helped to build a bridge for these children and the community.

One that touches very far and wide in a small town like ours. That was evident by the numerous towns that were represented. This generation of little humans took part in a community project. Projects like these, give them the opportunity to see those in uniform gathering at a table with fellow community members and enjoying a meal with each other. Things like this show the world that those in uniform no matter which kind, they are humans just like the rest of us. And most humans like food and conversation.

Our children need to see this. More of this. This is a perfect example of a town’s effort for the greater good of all the Cedar Creek Lake area. Our children need to see the system and who helped to create it. Do we want our children to forget what sacrifices were made?

It makes so much sense to have more of this.

Thank you to every person who was involved with this event that gets better and better each year!