WATERVILLE — Mount Merici Academy students recently welcomed home World War II veterans returning from their Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C.

A contingency of sixth- through eighth-grade students, led by eighth-grader Olivia Saucier, welcomed veterans as they entered the Portland Jetport, according to a news release from the academy.

“Witnessing the deep respect and gratitude that our Mount Merici students expressed to our veterans affirmed my belief that we are educating the whole child — mind, body, and spirit. I am incredibly proud of our students and their families for so honorably living our Serviam motto,” said Donna Russo, assistant principal and faculty member, according to the release.

The Honor Flight is a nonprofit organization created to honor America’s veterans for their service and sacrifices. The organization transports these heroes to Washington, D.C., to tour, experience and reflect at their memorials.

While in-flight, the veterans experienced a Military Mail Call during which they received dozens of handmade cards thanking them for their extraordinary service in WWII, and letting them know their service, and that of their fallen comrades, will never be forgotten. The cards delivered on this flight were made by Mount Merici Academy students.

The students, in full uniform, stood at attention as three by three, the veterans entered the Jetport. The students saluted and welcomed home each veteran. The students then became part of the Honor Guard and held service flags and participated in the procession through the Jetport as hundreds of people welcomed the veterans.

Olivia, as part of her Senior Service Project through Mount Merici’s Cassidy’s Kids service program, honors veterans of all wars, organized the day and spent time after school collecting the handmade cards by fellow students. “It was a great experience and an emotional time to see the veterans so cheerful. I felt privileged to a part of such a wonderful event. We should all honor our brave and courageous veterans,” said Olivia, according to the release.

A short video of the event can be found on Mount Merici Academy’s Facebook page @mountmerici.