With no classes Wednesday, a number of schools across Alachua County honored veterans Tuesday.

Students at Metcalfe Elementary in Gainesville came together for a special tribute to honor veterans. Men and women from the different branches of the armed forces gave short presentations to the students, including one from Tuskegee Airman Stephen Lawrence who lives in Gainesville.

Organizers at Metcalfe hope the first celebration won't be the last one.

"I hope that this will be a tradition that once I'm long gone that will continue because learning about what it takes to keep our country safe and beautiful is of utmost importance," said Elaine Ward, a music teacher at Metcalfe.