LENOX, MA - It's not your same old song and dance on stage at Berkshire Christian School in Lenox Monday. The elementary school is teaching kids some lessons they can't always find in the classroom.

"I wanted to sort of give them an idea of what the thoughts and feelings are, personally, of someone who serves and maybe some of the reasons," said Iraq War veteran Andrew Shaw.

A group of Iraq and World War II veterans spoke to students about the value of service, even at a young age.

"Even those that don't serve in our armed services can definitely contribute to our society and our country as a whole," said Shaw.

Veterans of all ages watched kids of all ages perform a tribute for their service to the country.

"It's important to do that because it shows your loyalty and how much courage you have for your country and how much you care about it," said seventh grader Elizabeth Kastrinakis."

"It's a symbol of freedom and that they're proud of being there and to serve there for us," said sixth grader Mandy Martin.

Just having the chance to talk to a veteran is a lesson these kids can't always get in a classroom. That's why some say the event is like a history lesson that's come to life.

"The world is much smaller than it was in my time and it impinges upon their lives whether they realize it or not," said World War II veteran Beatrice Selig.

"Soldiers give us the freedom, and they give us the freedom that we can say anything," said Kastrinakis.

It's a lesson on life that's centered on Veteran's Day. But it's also a message that's important all year long.