For several years, the community of Shrub Oak has paid its respects in a very visible way to the men and women serving in the U.S. military.

When the country was embroiled in two wars in 2003, Lakeland High School history teacher Maureen O'Donnell and a few others created red, white and blue wooden hearts for every active duty alumni and put the hearts in public places.

"It's close to my heart," says O'Donnell. "In my career, it's probably one of the proudest moments I have."

More than 100 hearts are nailed to phone poles that line Main Street in Shrub Oak. The hearts remind the service members' parents that the community understand the sacrifices their children are making.

O'Donnell says she receives emails from people telling her that they just joined the military, meaning the number of wooden hearts grows. Last year, an Eagle Scout replaced all of the older hearts that were showing wear and tear as a gift to the community.

As Veterans Day approaches, O'Donnell is sharing a message, "Just be thankful and keep them in your hearts," she says of American service members.

Veterans Day is Tuesday, Nov. 11.