School No. 2 “9/11 Salute to Heroes Assembly”

“How many ten-year olds are there?” asked Principal Marianela Martin of School No. 2 to an audience of school children. 

All eyes turned and watched as one by one hands began to extend upwards. 

Principal Martin paused before adding, “When you were born, this is when it all happened.”

9/11 is what happened. And the students sat eagerly listening to the story their principal was sharing with them. 

She explained that they were gathered in the auditorium to remember all the people who helped others on that September 11th ten years ago. To remember all those brave people who rushed into the World Trade Center to save others who did not make it out alive.

“It’s very important to remember. (Remembering) shows that we have pulled together; that we are looking for peace in the world,” Principal Martin said.

The children listened intently as she pointed out that the people seated behind her were Fort Lee’s first responders. “Today we have pulled together to honor first responders who help people when they are in need of help.”

Members of the Fort Lee Fire Department, Police and Amblance Corps were on hand including Deputy Fire Chief Keith Sabatino and Battalion Fire Chief Mark Sulcov; and Fire Official and former Fire Chief, Steve Curry. Also present was Commander Jim Viola from the V.F.W.

While acknowledging the efforts of all first responders, Principle Martin educated the students on the events of 9/11 while informing them of the vital role that first responders played that day. 

Deputy Chief Sabatino spoke on behalf of emergency services and explained the instrumental role that Fort Lee’s fire, police and ambulance played on 9/11. He told the children that not only did they assist New York by securing the bridge and helping at the World Trade Center, but they were also responsible for protecting the residents of Fort Lee. 

“On 9/11 one of our ambulances actually made it down to the World Trade Center where they helped people not only on that day, but for many days that followed. But there were still ambulances back in Fort Lee to help everyone who needed them there,” Sabatino said. 

Sabatino concluded by reminding the children that fire, police and ambulance workers are always there to help them should they ever be in need. 

During the ceremony, the children presented the first responders with original poems. The third grade read, “United We Stand;” the fourth grade read, “American Victims;” the fifth grade read, “Towers of Light;” and the sixth grade read “Never Forget.”

In a show of their appreciation, the children presented the emergency service workers with original drawings and letters thanking them for always helping others.

The assembly concluded with each emergency service worker being given a white carnation and the children singing “God Bless America.”