DUNLAP, Ill. (WMBD) -- Every Thursday morning, students walking into Banner Elementary start their day with something special: a fist bump from a veteran.

The tradition, led by a group of local service members, is part of a weekly effort to bring smiles, positivity, and appreciation for those who’ve served.

“We have our veterans. It’s something that we started when I was a principal at Tremont,” said Principal Becky Hansen. “When I came over to Banner, I decided September 11 would be the perfect day to bring them back.”

The idea started nearly a decade ago in Tremont, when a handful of veterans began greeting students on Thursday mornings.

Now, nine years later, the group has grown to more than 20 members, including 22 men and one woman, and continues to inspire schools across Central

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