Ahead of Independence day, a candidate for Virginia's 15th house district says kids need to understand the sacrifices made for our freedom.

In a press conference Wednesday evening candidate John Lesinski said he wants to include military awareness education to the
state's standards of learning requirements.
His proposal is already getting support from educators, and military veterans.

July forth is typically the time when children learn about historic battles, veterans, and U.S. soldiers currently serving overseas, but candidate John Lesinski doesn't think it's enough
"We anticipate this to add another one to three hours of instructions in the classroom.
We don't see this as a large burden on educators," says Lesinski.

John Lesinski, a retired Marine colonel, is pushing a proposal that would require public schools to teach students about the structure and function of the United States military

Meredith Gorfein, a member of the Rappahannock school board supports his plan.
"It lets people understand that there are people who sacrifice in bigger ways than some of us do, and it's important that this be recognized," says Gorfein.

Supporters say currently Virginia's standards of learning only address the armed forces in regard to historical references such as the draft. The new curriculum would include education on active duty, reserves, the national guard and veterans.

It's something retired marine colonel John Bourgeois would be pleased to see taught in schools.
"The role that the military plays, the role of the veteran and the support that the community gives to the veteran, I don't think that the kids really understand fully everything that is involved in military service," says Bourgeois.

The group stresses that this is not an effort to recruit students.
They plan to continue gaining support before submitting the proposal in Richmond.
Lesinski is challenging republican incumbent Todd Gilbert for the 15-th district seat.