Even though Veterans Day has come and gone, it is never too late or inappropriate to send a note of gratitude and appreciation to a U.S. veteran.

Recently, students at Cranston High School East wrote letters of thanks and created handmade ornaments out of red and green beads and pipe cleaners from the Recycling Center. The items will be placed into goodie bags and distributed to veterans through the program Operation Rhody.

On Nov. 13 and Nov. 20, nearly 100 students took one hour after school to show their gratitude, writing close to 100 letters and creating approximately 200 ornaments.

“I was very happy with and impressed by the serious effort the students put into their letters, and the heartfelt sentiments they conveyed,” Cranston East librarian Heidi Blais said. “These are great kids. Some of them brought the stationary home to work on their letters. One of the students brought the project to her Girl Scout troop to do.”

Mo Holtzman, a junior, said he was proud to be an American and wished the recipient of his letter a good life.

Sophomore Sonali Kong spoke of the bravery of those who serve in the military.

“I could never do it. I am grateful for the people who do,” he said.