Hundreds of red construction paper hearts crafted by BFA Fairfax and Essex Elementary students traveled a long way this Valentine's Day -- all the way to more than 400 soldiers serving in Iraq.
Funeral director Kayla Troxell, 28, of Fairfax organized the local version of "Operation Valentine."
It's part of a national effort lead by Veterans and Family Memorial Care, an end-of-life-services organization for veterans. Troxell said she was looking for a community project for A.W. Rich Funeral Home in Essex Junction.
"The children were so excited," Troxell said. "One student said she wanted the soldiers to know that they are loved on Valentine's Day and another was excited to bring smiles to their faces even though they could not be home with their Valentine."
