“I had to stand taller and help my father. I had to help soldiers whose names I never knew. And not say that I was afraid to see war.

As we pause to honor our Veterans during the month of November, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the heroes of war from around the world. America has such a rich history and we are so proud of our own Veterans that we tend to focus only on America’s involvement in wars and conflicts. While we should always make sure our students know of the wonderful and heroic contributions of Americans, in our multi-cultural society, we can also take time to honor the contributions and heroism of those around the world.

The Little Ships is the story of a young girl who disguised herself as a boy in an effort to assist the British and French soldiers at Dunkirk. In May of 1940, half a million British and French soldiers were trapped on the coast of France by German troops. The only chance at rescue was evacuation by sea. The Royal British Navy organized a rescue, but had too few vessels. In response, British civilians who had boats, of any size, were asked to cross the English Channel and assist with the rescue effort. The smallest boat was only 17 feet in length, but many civilians came to the rescue and assisted in the effort. In a week’s time, 338,226 men, as well as many dogs and various pets, were rescued with the assistance of the military/civilian armada of 861 ships. The scale of this rescue would have been impossible without the assistance of men, women, and children who were trying to do the right thing, and risked their own lives in the process

The Little Ships helps to remind us of the heroism and bravery of all who have been involved in conflicts, both civilian and military, domestic and abroad. The November Heartwood character trait of the month is Justice… we must remember and teach our students that justice goes beyond the courts and punishment… it means setting things right. Within our students’ lives, justice might be repairing a friendship, sticking up for another student, or telling the truth. On a larger scale, we can help our students to understand that wars and conflicts, while tragic, are aimed at providing justice for those being oppressed. Our military forces, and our allies, are charged with ensuring that justices is provided and that the right thing is always done. The Little Ships should also serve as a reminder that we can all make a difference and help to do the right thing…. no matter how little we are!