Apex, N.C. — Students at Baucom Elementary School in Apex showed their appreciation for veterans with a special assembly Friday.

Dozens of veterans, escorted by their children and grandchildren, were treated to applause and greetings from students during the assembly, a tradition at Baucom Elementary for eight years.

"The veterans have served our country, risked their lives and not being able to spend all their time with their family," fifth-grader Kyndall Boxell said. 

The outreach from the children showed the veterans their appreciation, though many are too young to remember their service.

"With all the enthusiasm they have, it pumps us up," said Ret. U.S. Navy Cmdr. Charlie Roach. "You know we're in good hands."

Students recognized that the United States would be a lot different without the sacrifices made by veterans.

"Thank you for all your service because without you, then I wouldn't be able to be standing here in a free country," Boxell said.