Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) was joined by local veterans, students and families yesterday at the Long Island Children’s Museum for a reception honoring the participants of his annual Veterans Portrait Project. The event celebrated the hard work of Notre Dame School eighth-grade students, who studied and interviewed veterans to create personal biographies and portraits, now displayed in the museum’s Community Gallery. Inspired by former President George W. Bush’s “Portraits of Courage,” the project connected students to veterans through art, history and storytelling. Attendees enjoyed pizza and ice cream as they gathered to view the completed portraits and share their experiences.

“Our veterans and students always have a great time with this project,” said Ra. “The best way to learn about the history of our veterans is to talk to them and hear their stories firsthand. This is how we make sure history is never forgotten. The students’ work shows how history can truly be brought to life.”

“As always, thank you to every student and veteran who participated and shared their stories. I’m incredibly proud of these students for the care and creativity they put into honoring our local heroes.”