Homeschooling Through History: Honoring Veterans and Listening to Stories That Matter
Homeschool
Audio By Carbonatix
By Tricia Goyer
Some of the best stories aren’t found in history books… they’re tucked away in hearts.
Years ago, I received a package from my dear friend John—a World War II veteran I first met while researching for one of my historical novels. Inside the envelope were copies of letters he’d written home during the war. The paper was aged and folded, but his words jumped off the page, vivid with the reality of war, sacrifice, and faith.
As I read his words, I was reminded of something important: history is personal. And as homeschool parents, we have a powerful opportunity—not just to teach facts and dates—but to pass on living history to our children through relationships and storytelling.
Why Veterans Day Matters in Your Homeschool
Veterans Day isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s a chance to pause, remember, and give thanks. It’s a moment to shift from textbooks to real-life testimonies. And it’s the perfect opportunity to teach our kids the value of service, sacrifice, and gratitude.
Veterans Day provides a unique way to teach our children to listen, ask, and honor those who came before.
The Power of Storytelling
When I began interviewing World War II veterans, I thought I was collecting research for novels. But what I really gained were friendships—and firsthand wisdom from men like John.
One letter he shared was written on December 26, 1944, from a frozen foxhole during the Battle of the Bulge. Another, dated April 27, 1945, described the liberation of starving prisoners from a Nazi concentration camp. These words weren’t just a window into the past—they were a soul imprint of courage, compassion, and the human cost of freedom.
“The Lord looks down from heaven... to hear the groans of the prisoners and release those condemned to die.”
— Psalm 102:19-20
Just as God heard the cries of the oppressed, we honor Him by remembering those who acted in courage to bring liberation.
5 Homeschool Activities for Veterans Day
Here are some simple but powerful ways you can incorporate Veterans Day into your homeschool—fostering gratitude and connection.
1. Interview a Veteran
Do you know someone who served? Ask your children to prepare questions and record the conversation (audio or video). Encourage questions like:
- What was daily life like while you served?
- What is one lesson you learned during your service?
- How did your faith influence your time in the military?
Don’t know a veteran personally? Reach out to your local VFW, American Legion, or church congregation. Many veterans love to share—if someone is willing to listen.
2. Create a Veterans Day Keepsake
Using the veteran’s photo and quotes from your interview, make a scrapbook page or digital slideshow. Encourage your child to write a short reflection on what they learned.
3. Write Thank-You Letters
Set aside time for a “Letter-Writing Hour.” Have your children write personal thank-you cards to veterans in your community. Decorate them with patriotic symbols and scriptures of courage.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
— John 15:13
4. Read a Historical Novel or Biography
Choose age-appropriate books that highlight military history and personal stories. Some great options:
- Twenty and Ten by Claire Huchet Bishop (middle grade)
- The Twice-Rescued Child by Thomas Graumann and Tricia Goyer (tween/teen/adult)
- Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac (teen)
- Breath of Bones by Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer (teen/adult)
- From Dust and Ashes by Tricia Goyer (teen/adult)
Pair the book with a writing assignment or family discussion about the events.
5. Pray for Veterans Together
Dedicate part of your homeschool morning to pray specifically for veterans and active military members. Ask your children to take turns thanking God for those who serve, and lifting up anyone you know by name.
Real-Life Learning with Real-Heart Impact
Homeschooling isn’t just about covering curriculum—it’s about shaping character. Taking the time to remember veterans and hear their stories plants seeds of empathy, courage, and gratitude in our children’s hearts.
As a mom, I’ve had the privilege of writing about the past. But more than anything, I want my children to remember—to know that freedom is never free, and to honor the legacy of those who served.
“Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”
— Jeremiah 6:16
Let’s teach our children to ask the good questions, to walk the good path, and to honor those who walked it before us.
A Prayer for This Veterans Day
Lord,
Thank You for the brave men and women who have served our nation with courage. Help us, as parents and homeschoolers, to honor their legacy by passing down stories of sacrifice and faith. Give us ears to listen, hearts to understand, and hands ready to serve those who have served us. May our homes be filled with remembrance, gratitude, and the truth of Your love.
Amen.
Want to Learn More?
If you’d like to read more about my interviews with veterans and how those stories shaped my novels, check out:
Let this Veterans Day be more than just a lesson—it can be a life lesson your children carry with them forever.
