On February 10th, the San Mateo County Veteran Services Office, in proud partnership with the San Mateo Elks Lodge, hosted a groundbreaking event: Bridging Generations: Veterans & Students in Conversation. This one-of-a-kind gathering brought together veterans and juniors from Junípero Serra High School for a powerful and transformative exchange of stories, experiences, and life lessons.
The event offered roughly 150 high school juniors the unique opportunity to sit face-to-face with 12 veterans representing service from World War II to the present day. These veterans came from diverse backgrounds—male and female, spanning different racial and cultural identities—offering the students a wide range of perspectives on military service.
The atmosphere in the room was both vibrant and reflective. Despite the large group, a profound sense of focus filled the space as students leaned in attentively, taking notes and hanging on every word of the veterans’ stories. The conversations covered everything from the challenges of military life to the enduring lessons learned through service. Veterans shared not just tales of courage but insights on leadership, perseverance, and personal growth.
As the formal discussions concluded, many students took the opportunity to personally thank the veterans, shaking hands and expressing their gratitude for the service and transparency shared that day. Some even requested photos and continued listening to the veterans’ stories long after the scheduled discussions had ended.
In a heartwarming gesture, Serra High School students presented each veteran with a thoughtful gift as a token of appreciation. The veterans, visibly moved by the experience, shared that the curiosity and respect shown by these young men left a lasting impact.
The County of San Mateo Veteran Services Office extends heartfelt thanks to Junípero Serra High School for their enthusiastic participation. Many veterans remarked on how meaningful the conversations were, with some expressing a desire to continue engaging with the community in similar events.
This inspiring day was a testament to the power of storytelling and connection across generations. The San Mateo County Veteran Services Office looks forward to hosting more events that bridge the gap between veterans and young community members, fostering respect, understanding, and shared growth.
As we reflect on this successful inaugural event, we encourage other schools and organizations to join us in celebrating and learning from those who have served our country. Together, we can continue to honor the past while inspiring the future.