09/11/2026
Today marks 25 years since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, a day when ordinary people were called to extraordinary courage, first responders ran toward danger, and our nation was forever changed.
Our responsibility remains the same: to remember those who were taken from us, honor those who answered the call, stand with the families who continue to carry their loss, and teach the generations who did not witness that day why we still say, “Never Forget.”
To help keep that promise, we invited local fifth-grade students to reflect on the meaning of September 11 and share what its legacy means to their generation.
During this morning’s remembrance ceremony at Patriots Park, Venice Christian School fifth-grade student Nazar read his essay and shared this thoughtful reflection:
"Hello everyone, today we are here to remember the day when a tragic event happened. September 11, 2001, was a disastrous day when about 3,000 people lost their lives and many people lost their close ones at the World Trade Towers, the Pentagon, and a field in Shanksville.
There was a lot of fear and panic. However, at the same time when terrified people rushed out of the fire and dust, there were the brave first responders who sacrificed themselves for others. We honor them because of their courage and love. Like Jesus taught: "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” These people showed a greater love by risking and giving their lives for other people.
Even though this was a dark day for our nation, God showed His light through the ordinary people who came together to support one another. America became stronger and more united after this trial. That’s why today we can thank God for this country and freedom that is given to us."
