Eric Montana, a senior at Meadowbrook Alternative Program in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, is shipping off to Marine recruit training in South Carolina in two weeks. The recent meet and greet between his fellow classmates and the organization, Vet2Vet, allowed him to express his admiration for these individuals who served our country.

“World War II was the greatest generation of individuals,” he said. “You brought up this nation. Hats off to you for your service.”

Veterans and their spouses from the Bristal Assisted Living facility have met twice over the past few weeks to exchange life experiences and future plans.

“We are bringing our [history] lessons to life here,” said Social Studies teacher Geisha Kwiatkowski. “It also gives them an opportunity to experience different viewpoints of current events.”

The meetings were also facilitated by Steve Rose, the founder and director of the district’s Family Project program, which brings together students and adults with developmental disabilities to engage in social interactions, recreation and independent living skills development with the support of the school community. He is also involved with Vet2Vet.