IN THE CLASSROOM:

Cpl. Harold G. Scharfe has a motto: “Every day is a bonus.”

Scharfe has a particular insight, considering he spent three years worth of days as a POW during World War II.

“Hell” is how Scharfe described his experiences to students at Corona del Mar High School at a luncheon Thursday to honor 92 veterans who took part in the school’s Living History Project.

About 360 sophomores conducted interviews, did research, wrote reports and created a DVD of veterans they talked to, copies of which were presented to each veteran.

Sam Parks, 15, interviewed Scharfe, and was amazed by the sacrifices he and other veterans have made.

“I got to learn about things they don’t teach in history books and put a personal perspective on the stuff they do,” Parks said.

Scharfe, who was in the Canadian army in 1939, thought the experience was not only an eye opener for students, but a great experience for the veterans to come together in one place.

“It’s fantastic,” said Scharfe, a member of the Freedom Committee that helps put on the event. “There is a different feeling among veterans — a certain camaraderie you can’t put into words.”

Ron Guyer, a representative for assemblyman Van Tran, and Newport Beach Mayor Ed Selich, spoke at the ceremony to honor the veterans, and also honored the teachers who were involved, for their efforts.

“I am stunned and pleased to be here,” Guyer said. “These are love stories you are honoring here today.”

The small gym at the high school was lined with students, veterans, teachers, parents and community members empathizing with the service veterans.

“It was amazing,” said Blake Burkhart, 16, whose dad is a veteran of Desert Storm.

“You don’t really know what goes on as a teenager — your whole perspective turns around.”

Scharfe reiterated the importance for students to be involved and learn about what veterans go through.

“[Students’] biggest worry today is getting a signal on their cell phone,” Scharfe said.

“I had one pair of pants when I was their age.”

DANIEL TEDFORD may be reached at (714) 966-4632 or at daniel.tedford@latimes.com.