Kansas City Commemorates 23 Years Since 9/11
Kansas City, Kan. — It’s hard to believe that it has been 23 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. For many of us, those moments remain seared in our memories, but for today’s high school students, it’s a day they’ve only heard about through stories or history lessons. Despite this generational gap, students from Washington High School’s Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) took a moment to reflect and honor those lost in the attacks during a touching ceremony held on Wednesday.
A Generation Comes Together
As Nevaeh Rosa, a wing commander in the ROTC program, puts it, “As a generation, even though we didn’t experience it, this was an experience for our country, not just an individual or generation, this happened to all of us.” It’s amazing how some events can transcend time and generations, resonating deeply even with those who were not alive when they occurred. Students like Nevaeh are fostering remembrance and respect as they step into the shoes of those who came before them, reminding us all of the importance of unity today.
Personal Connections to 9/11
For many of the students, their connections to 9/11 are woven through family stories. Trinity Wheeler, who serves as the ROTC operations group commander, shared that her great-grandmother has a video of the events unfolding on that day. “She was there watching it happen,” Trinity recounted, emphasizing the personal impact even decades later. It’s stories like these that spark curiosity and encourage students to delve deeper into understanding the past.
Lessons Learned from History
Alexandria Corrales-Arenas, another ROTC member, reflected on her educational journey regarding 9/11. She remembered reading about it growing up, but her visit to the Twin Towers site last year brought her education to life. “I just come back to that moment in my childhood where I was reading about all of this and I was like, ‘So this is what it was like, this is what it looked like,’” she shared. It’s a powerful reminder of how firsthand experiences can deepen understanding in ways textbooks alone sometimes cannot.
The Heroism of a Nation
The students also focus on the remarkable stories of heroism that sprouted from that dark day. “I was taught that a lot of people lost their lives trying to save people, and they really are the heroes,” Trinity said, highlighting the bravery displayed by first responders and everyday citizens alike. This emphasis on heroism is vital as it illustrates not just the tragedy of the attacks, but also how Americans came together in the face of adversity.
Commemorating with Purpose
Through their annual ceremony, the students are ensuring that the lessons learned from 9/11 are not lost. They stand as a symbol of remembrance, unity, and education for those who weren’t alive to witness the events, but want to honor those who were affected. The ceremony serves as a bridge connecting the past to the present, fostering awareness and understanding that is crucial for future generations.
As they lay wreaths and share stories, the ROTC cadets are not only remembering the past; they are also paving the way for a future where history is cherished and learned from. In this small corner of Kansas City, the echoes of that fateful day in September continue to resonate, reminding us all of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
