BRILLIANT-It was a time to reflect and remember the many lives lost, the many who risked themselves and the aftermath of the terrorist attacks upon America on Sept. 11, 2001, during a special ceremony at the Brilliant American Legion Post 573.
Buckeye North Elementary fourth- and fifth-graders joined veterans, safety forces and the public for a program on Thursday near the flagpole outside the post on Market Street, where they were welcomed by Post Commander Mickey Nest. Following a moment of silence, Chaplain Deb Gilchrist led prayers and asked God to heal those wounded in the attacks while giving leaders wisdom to create a more peaceful world.
Nest said President George W. Bush declared Sept. 11 as Patriot’s Day following the incident and nearly a quarter-century has passed since four planes hijacked by al Qaeda terrorists struck the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a field in Shanksville, Pa., en route to another target.
“It’s difficult to believe it’s been 24 years. We all remember where we were and what we were doing,” he said. “Lives were changed forever.”
He said the ceremony was a time to remember the police, fire, and first responders who died, as well as the brave passengers who overtook the plane in Pennsylvania to thwart another attack. Three thousand people died in all with numerous lives impacted, from the loved ones they left behind to communities devastated by the horrific actions.
State Commander Stan Oren was the featured speaker for the day, sharing emotional remarks about the importance of remembering the nearly 3,000 people who perished, the people who bravely heeded the call to respond and the communities which united following the attacks.
“On this day of solemn remembrance, unity and reflection, we are together not only to remember Sept. 11 but the enduring strength of our communities and the uncommon valor of those who stormed forward when everything seemed to stand still,” he added. “Within hours, our lives were forever changed as four planes became instruments of destruction and struck at the World Trade Center, Pentagon and in Shanksville. Today we honor their courage, their dreams and the legacies they left behind.”
He recalled how first responders scaled the steps of smoky buildings struck by the hijacked airplanes and office workers led people to safety before the twin towers of the World Trade Center fell. Neighbors reached out to comfort each other and communities held vigils, donated blood to aid the injured and were rebuilt, creating a light of humanity in darkness and making America stronger. It was also imperative that future generations understood what occurred so they could keep the legacy of the lost moving forward.
“Many of our children learn it as history, not by living it,” Oren added. “We must remember the cost of freedom and the power of vigilance. ‘Never forget’ is more than a phrase, it’s a promise.”
He also honored the “quiet heroes”—the loved ones of those lost and veterans who returned home changed. Oren also asked that people volunteer in their community and reach out to their neighbors, while teachers should share with children the meaning of service.
“Let us build a future…of unity, compassion and resilience,” he concluded.
The program also included the American Legion Honor Guards with a flag presentation and rifle salute while Wells Township Police Chief Sean Norman and Brilliant Fire Chief Brian Harvey placed a commemorative wreath. The crowd, including the students, raised their hands to their hearts or in salute to the National Anthem and a rendition of Taps at the conclusion.
Commander Nest said ceremonies have been held since 2002 and he was glad to see the local school take part.
“It’s to remember the events that occurred and those who tragically perished on that day,” he added. “We always invite the school and it’s open to the public, first responders, police and the veterans of the American Legion.”
“We never want to forget, just like Pearl Harbor,” added Oren. “The young people didn’t experience it, but we did. We have to keep it alive and make sure history is taught.”
The ceremony was a touching tribute for all ages, including North Elementary fourth-grader Jackson Hilliard.
“9-11 was a very tragic event. I feel very sad and I will always try to honor the men and women and [emergency responders] who helped,” Hilliard said.
“I’m sad that so many people died,” added classmate Jackson Chesonis-Spano.
Principal Susan Nolan said having students take part was a significant way to help history live on.
“I think it’s important to teach them why we honor the police, firefighters, our vets and the fallen, to keep alive what they did and respect that they gave their lives.”
Photo Caption:
Buckeye North Elementary fourth-graders Jackson Hilliard and Jackson Chesonis-Spano salute during a rendition of Taps at the Brilliant American Legion’s Sept. 11 ceremony on Thursday. Pictured with them are schoolmates Mayson Maderia, Londyn Sterling, Laney Maderia and Rylee Wilson while State Commander Stan Oren was the featured speaker. The event reflected on the lives lost and the strength that was found in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in 2001.