2025 Warren County, OH 9/11 Remembrance
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Kings High School Artwork
Student Poetry Selected and Honored at the
2025 Warren County 9/11 Remembrance
The True Heroes
By Emma Poggi
The morning began
with coffee cups,
footsteps in crowded streets,
a thousand ordinary beginnings.
Then--
a shadow carved the sky.
The city gasped.
The blue September air
was torn with fire
and falling glass.
Strangers held hands,
lifting each other
from the rubble of fear.
Boots struck pavement,
gear heavy on your back,
as you climbed
into the burning heart
of a city in despair.
Smoke bit your eyes--
but you kept climbing.
Every floor,
a choice to keep going.
Every step,
a prayer you’d make it back--
but you never stopped.
In that rising heat
you carried strangers
like they were your own children.
You spoke calm into chaos,
gave breath where air was gone,
and stood
when the walls began to fall.
When the towers came down,
the ground shook with sorrow,
and the world lost
its bravest sons and daughters.
But your courage did not die there--
it lives in every siren wail,
every flag raised,
every oath taken
by those who follow after.
We speak your names,
not just in grief
but in gratitude.
Even in the darkest morning,
there are those
who will always
run toward.
By Emma Poggi
The morning began
with coffee cups,
footsteps in crowded streets,
a thousand ordinary beginnings.
Then--
a shadow carved the sky.
The city gasped.
The blue September air
was torn with fire
and falling glass.
Strangers held hands,
lifting each other
from the rubble of fear.
Boots struck pavement,
gear heavy on your back,
as you climbed
into the burning heart
of a city in despair.
Smoke bit your eyes--
but you kept climbing.
Every floor,
a choice to keep going.
Every step,
a prayer you’d make it back--
but you never stopped.
In that rising heat
you carried strangers
like they were your own children.
You spoke calm into chaos,
gave breath where air was gone,
and stood
when the walls began to fall.
When the towers came down,
the ground shook with sorrow,
and the world lost
its bravest sons and daughters.
But your courage did not die there--
it lives in every siren wail,
every flag raised,
every oath taken
by those who follow after.
We speak your names,
not just in grief
but in gratitude.
Even in the darkest morning,
there are those
who will always
run toward.
9/11 Poem
By Ella Drabczyk
On September 11, 2001, the morning sky was blue.
Sickeningly bright blue.
The kind of sky that should have promised
Ordinary-
Traffic lights changing,
Coffee steaming,
Children laughing
But then-
Sirens cut through the air,
Windows shattered,
Illusions of safety scattered,
And towers fell
And inside-
Smoke filled the stairwells.
Feet pounded downward,
Hearts pounded faster,
Yet, against the current of fear
Upward still went the firefighters,
The medics,
The officers,
The average joe,
Not becoming heroes, but showing who they always were,
Pushing forward with every step against the flame.
Flags would never rise the same again.
Every half-mast carries a weight,
A whisper of names
We will never unhear
Behind those whispers are boots left empty,
Helmets set down,
Photographs taped to walls,
That are still waiting for someone
Who will never come home.
And yet-
In the dust,
In the silence,
Hands reached for hands.
Strangers carried strangers.
Hope held its ground
When despair tried to crush it in the rubble.
The world refused to stop spinning,
But something shifted on its axis.
Airports grew quieter.
Lines stretched longer.
People pulled their children closer.
We knew the dust from the rubble would not be swept away,
The dust would suffocate us for years
But that suffocating pressure formed purpose,
To walk differently,
To hold tighter,
To stand taller,
To rise together.
Because courage is not buried in the rubble.
It lives in the ones who climbed into the smoke
While others fell.
It lives in the uniforms,
In the sirens,
In the families who still bear the weight.
It lives in us-
When we choose service over silence,
Compassion over indifference,
Life over survival.
Now on this day, 24 years later,
We gather.
Not weak and in shambles,
But united in strength.
Not only to remember,
But to promise,
That we will not forget.
That in unity we will honor the fallen and the living.
We will honor them with our choices,
Our lives.
Here in our hearts and minds,
We lift their memory together-
Neighbors, families, strangers,
One community,
One nation,
Under God,
Indivisible,
Holding liberty and justice,
For all.
By Ella Drabczyk
On September 11, 2001, the morning sky was blue.
Sickeningly bright blue.
The kind of sky that should have promised
Ordinary-
Traffic lights changing,
Coffee steaming,
Children laughing
But then-
Sirens cut through the air,
Windows shattered,
Illusions of safety scattered,
And towers fell
And inside-
Smoke filled the stairwells.
Feet pounded downward,
Hearts pounded faster,
Yet, against the current of fear
Upward still went the firefighters,
The medics,
The officers,
The average joe,
Not becoming heroes, but showing who they always were,
Pushing forward with every step against the flame.
Flags would never rise the same again.
Every half-mast carries a weight,
A whisper of names
We will never unhear
Behind those whispers are boots left empty,
Helmets set down,
Photographs taped to walls,
That are still waiting for someone
Who will never come home.
And yet-
In the dust,
In the silence,
Hands reached for hands.
Strangers carried strangers.
Hope held its ground
When despair tried to crush it in the rubble.
The world refused to stop spinning,
But something shifted on its axis.
Airports grew quieter.
Lines stretched longer.
People pulled their children closer.
We knew the dust from the rubble would not be swept away,
The dust would suffocate us for years
But that suffocating pressure formed purpose,
To walk differently,
To hold tighter,
To stand taller,
To rise together.
Because courage is not buried in the rubble.
It lives in the ones who climbed into the smoke
While others fell.
It lives in the uniforms,
In the sirens,
In the families who still bear the weight.
It lives in us-
When we choose service over silence,
Compassion over indifference,
Life over survival.
Now on this day, 24 years later,
We gather.
Not weak and in shambles,
But united in strength.
Not only to remember,
But to promise,
That we will not forget.
That in unity we will honor the fallen and the living.
We will honor them with our choices,
Our lives.
Here in our hearts and minds,
We lift their memory together-
Neighbors, families, strangers,
One community,
One nation,
Under God,
Indivisible,
Holding liberty and justice,
For all.
On the Branches of Tomorrow
By Eliana Runella
Beneath a hollowed sky,
Where darkness stretches as far as the eye can see,
Names carved in stone
whisper louder than silence,
Their memories a solemn wound
time cannot close,
Beneath a darkened sky,
Where the air remembers the ash,
And the unfinished goodbyes
are silenced by tragedy,
A tree has grown.
A small, ragged thing
breaking through the pavement
Its roots tangled in longing and sorrow,
Its branches heavy with the hearts
of loved ones gone on,
Yet its leaves catch light.
And the leaves tell a different story,
One of great loss,
but also of resilience
Of children who have lost their parents,
but learned to walk in their shoes;
Of fighters who were taken too soon,
Yet their cries of battle live on
through the veins and markings of these leaves
And so the tree stands–
A monument not of stone,
but of breath.
Its shadow holds the sorrow of a nation,
Yet its crown reaches for the sun–
Proof that even in the darkest of soil,
Hope can root,
And the silence learns to sing,
On the branches of tomorrow.
By Eliana Runella
Beneath a hollowed sky,
Where darkness stretches as far as the eye can see,
Names carved in stone
whisper louder than silence,
Their memories a solemn wound
time cannot close,
Beneath a darkened sky,
Where the air remembers the ash,
And the unfinished goodbyes
are silenced by tragedy,
A tree has grown.
A small, ragged thing
breaking through the pavement
Its roots tangled in longing and sorrow,
Its branches heavy with the hearts
of loved ones gone on,
Yet its leaves catch light.
And the leaves tell a different story,
One of great loss,
but also of resilience
Of children who have lost their parents,
but learned to walk in their shoes;
Of fighters who were taken too soon,
Yet their cries of battle live on
through the veins and markings of these leaves
And so the tree stands–
A monument not of stone,
but of breath.
Its shadow holds the sorrow of a nation,
Yet its crown reaches for the sun–
Proof that even in the darkest of soil,
Hope can root,
And the silence learns to sing,
On the branches of tomorrow.
2024 Warren County, OH 9/11 Remembrance
In The Heart of 9/11, We Stand
by Juan Lopez Rodriguez, Kings Local Schools student
From the dust and the pain, we found our way,
Holding onto hope in the light of day.
In the face of fear, we stood strong and true,
United in courage, together we grew.
Heroes rose, with kindness and care,
Showing us love in the dark air.
Through every loss, we learned to give,
And in their memory, we choose to live.
By helping each other, we heal and grow,
creating peace in the places we know.
As we remember, we find a way,
To build a world where love will stay.
by Juan Lopez Rodriguez, Kings Local Schools student
From the dust and the pain, we found our way,
Holding onto hope in the light of day.
In the face of fear, we stood strong and true,
United in courage, together we grew.
Heroes rose, with kindness and care,
Showing us love in the dark air.
Through every loss, we learned to give,
And in their memory, we choose to live.
By helping each other, we heal and grow,
creating peace in the places we know.
As we remember, we find a way,
To build a world where love will stay.
9/11 Poem
By Benjamin Delehanty, Kings Local Schools student
In the shadow of towers where sunlight was once,
We saw the depths of hatred, a world left to mourn.
Yet from the ruins of fear, a new hope was born,
A symbol of bravery at the break of each dawn.
Amidst the turmoil and tears, we found a hand to hold,
In the faces of strangers, a warmth to behold.
Through the acts of the bravery and the kindness they showed,
We saw the true strength where darkness once flowed.
As we remember the loss and the pain that we knew,
We also see unity in all that we do.
In serving each other and in moments of grace,
We turn shadows to light in this shared, hopeful space.
By Benjamin Delehanty, Kings Local Schools student
In the shadow of towers where sunlight was once,
We saw the depths of hatred, a world left to mourn.
Yet from the ruins of fear, a new hope was born,
A symbol of bravery at the break of each dawn.
Amidst the turmoil and tears, we found a hand to hold,
In the faces of strangers, a warmth to behold.
Through the acts of the bravery and the kindness they showed,
We saw the true strength where darkness once flowed.
As we remember the loss and the pain that we knew,
We also see unity in all that we do.
In serving each other and in moments of grace,
We turn shadows to light in this shared, hopeful space.
9/11 essay
by Royce Hawkins, Kings Local Schools student
The world was made aware of the harmful effects of the terror acts of September 11, 2001, but they also taught us how to respond to them with bravery, understanding, and strength. 9/11 is a reminder to us as a nation that we can stay strong by helping one another even in moments of evil. First responders, normal people, and people from across the world united to show that kindness can occur even in difficult situations. We learn that when we stand together in love and compassion, evil will be beaten.
The bravery of the people who gave up their lives for others is what most inspires me about 9/11. Authorities, ambulances, firefighters, and everyday people showed amazing courage. Their actions give an example that when disaster strikes it's important to put others before ourselves. By being kind, patient, and willing to help even under difficult conditions, we can use the lessons learned to bring about peace in today's world. Small acts of bravery and kindness have a great impact, whether they occur in our communities or worldwide.
Helping the nation in memory of 9/11 goes to keeping up the shared mindset. By supporting each other and volunteering, we give respect to those who died and show that evil can't tear humans apart. We build stronger connections and improve understanding when we work to improve our nation and communities. By doing this, we will create a more pleasant and peaceful nation where understanding and kindness will win against fear and evil.
by Royce Hawkins, Kings Local Schools student
The world was made aware of the harmful effects of the terror acts of September 11, 2001, but they also taught us how to respond to them with bravery, understanding, and strength. 9/11 is a reminder to us as a nation that we can stay strong by helping one another even in moments of evil. First responders, normal people, and people from across the world united to show that kindness can occur even in difficult situations. We learn that when we stand together in love and compassion, evil will be beaten.
The bravery of the people who gave up their lives for others is what most inspires me about 9/11. Authorities, ambulances, firefighters, and everyday people showed amazing courage. Their actions give an example that when disaster strikes it's important to put others before ourselves. By being kind, patient, and willing to help even under difficult conditions, we can use the lessons learned to bring about peace in today's world. Small acts of bravery and kindness have a great impact, whether they occur in our communities or worldwide.
Helping the nation in memory of 9/11 goes to keeping up the shared mindset. By supporting each other and volunteering, we give respect to those who died and show that evil can't tear humans apart. We build stronger connections and improve understanding when we work to improve our nation and communities. By doing this, we will create a more pleasant and peaceful nation where understanding and kindness will win against fear and evil.
9/11 Poem
by Greyson Hackbarth, Kings Local Schools student
Oh, say can you see,
the smoke rising from the towers,
a cityscape fractured,
where dreams once stood tall.
By the dawn's early light,
we watched disbelief turn to dust,
steel melting under the weight of hate,
souls fleeing before the sun had its say.
What so proudly we hailed,
turned to echoes in the sky,
where was our pride then,
as buildings crumbled like sandcastles in a storm?
At the twilight's last gleaming,
hope hung in the balance,
and the city’s heartbeat skipped,
lost in the silence of those who would never return.
Whose broad stripes and bright stars
became streaks of ash and fire,
a banner of sorrow unfurled,
over streets that cried for justice.
Through the perilous fight,
we searched for meaning in the rubble,
found unity in the shadows,
and vowed to rise again, one nation, undivided.
O'er the ramparts we watched
the smoke clear, the skyline scarred,
but still, we stood,
a people forged in the flames of resilience.
Were so gallantly streaming?
Through the tears, through the pain,
we held on to the threads of our flag,
as if it could stitch the wounds of a nation torn apart.
And the rocket's red glare,
was no longer a symbol of victory,
but of lives lost, hearts broken,
as we watched in horror, helpless and hurting.
The bombs bursting in air,
echoed in our minds,
as we mourned for the innocence lost,
in a world forever changed.
Gave proof through the night
that our flag was still there,
tattered, yet standing,
a testament to our spirit, unyielding.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
over a land that learned to heal,
over a people who refuse to forget,
a song of sorrow and strength intertwined,
O'er the land of the free
where we found courage in the cracks,
and liberty in the love we shared,
even when the world seemed to burn.
And the home of the brave.
For we are brave,
in remembering, in rebuilding,
in never letting the light fade,
on the lives we lost that day.
by Greyson Hackbarth, Kings Local Schools student
Oh, say can you see,
the smoke rising from the towers,
a cityscape fractured,
where dreams once stood tall.
By the dawn's early light,
we watched disbelief turn to dust,
steel melting under the weight of hate,
souls fleeing before the sun had its say.
What so proudly we hailed,
turned to echoes in the sky,
where was our pride then,
as buildings crumbled like sandcastles in a storm?
At the twilight's last gleaming,
hope hung in the balance,
and the city’s heartbeat skipped,
lost in the silence of those who would never return.
Whose broad stripes and bright stars
became streaks of ash and fire,
a banner of sorrow unfurled,
over streets that cried for justice.
Through the perilous fight,
we searched for meaning in the rubble,
found unity in the shadows,
and vowed to rise again, one nation, undivided.
O'er the ramparts we watched
the smoke clear, the skyline scarred,
but still, we stood,
a people forged in the flames of resilience.
Were so gallantly streaming?
Through the tears, through the pain,
we held on to the threads of our flag,
as if it could stitch the wounds of a nation torn apart.
And the rocket's red glare,
was no longer a symbol of victory,
but of lives lost, hearts broken,
as we watched in horror, helpless and hurting.
The bombs bursting in air,
echoed in our minds,
as we mourned for the innocence lost,
in a world forever changed.
Gave proof through the night
that our flag was still there,
tattered, yet standing,
a testament to our spirit, unyielding.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
over a land that learned to heal,
over a people who refuse to forget,
a song of sorrow and strength intertwined,
O'er the land of the free
where we found courage in the cracks,
and liberty in the love we shared,
even when the world seemed to burn.
And the home of the brave.
For we are brave,
in remembering, in rebuilding,
in never letting the light fade,
on the lives we lost that day.
Photos shared by Steve Shubert, Ohio Task Force 1 Nighttime Ops Leader while at Ground Zero
2023 Warren County 9/11 Remembrance
Student Poetry Selected and Honored at the
2023 Warren County 9/11 Remembrance
The 9/11 Remembrance is honored to share these student poems with our community as a lasting gift of hope and joy from our next generation. They answered the suffering of 9/11 with their call to help and heal others with their poetry, art and service to community.
9/11 Poem
By Sarvinoz Inamjanova
First Place
In the land where dreams once soared,
A day of darkness, our hearts were gored.
September's sun, a somber morn,
When the world awoke, forever torn.
The towers, mighty, kissed the sky,
Symbols of strength, reaching high.
But evil's hand, with cruel design,
Brought devastation, a heinous sign.
With innocence shattered, and lives laid bare,
A nation wept, burdened by despair.
Smoke and ash, a haunting shroud,
The echoes of terror screamed aloud.
Heroes emerged from the depths of strife,
Firefighters, police, risking their life.
Amidst the chaos, they stood so tall,
Answering duty's sacred call.
Strangers united, their hands entwined,
Acts of kindness, humanity defined.
In the darkest hour, a nation's embrace,
Love's resilience, in every face.
We remember the lives that were lost,
Their spirits are forever in our hearts embossed.
Mothers and fathers, daughters and sons,
Friends and colleagues, each precious one.
Let us honor their memory, stand as one,
Defiant against hatred, our unity won.
For in the face of adversity, we rise,
United by hope, love's eternal ties.
On this day, we remember with sorrow,
But also with strength, a brighter tomorrow.
For in the face of darkness, we find the light,
Together we heal, united, we fight.
The towers may have fallen, but not our resolve,
To stand strong, united, as problems evolve.
In the hearts of heroes, the spirit lives on,
And we vow to honor them, from dusk till dawn.
So let us not forget this fateful day,
When the world changed in an unimaginable way.
May peace prevail, and hearts be healed,
As the echoes of 9/11 are forever sealed.
A day of darkness, our hearts were gored.
September's sun, a somber morn,
When the world awoke, forever torn.
The towers, mighty, kissed the sky,
Symbols of strength, reaching high.
But evil's hand, with cruel design,
Brought devastation, a heinous sign.
With innocence shattered, and lives laid bare,
A nation wept, burdened by despair.
Smoke and ash, a haunting shroud,
The echoes of terror screamed aloud.
Heroes emerged from the depths of strife,
Firefighters, police, risking their life.
Amidst the chaos, they stood so tall,
Answering duty's sacred call.
Strangers united, their hands entwined,
Acts of kindness, humanity defined.
In the darkest hour, a nation's embrace,
Love's resilience, in every face.
We remember the lives that were lost,
Their spirits are forever in our hearts embossed.
Mothers and fathers, daughters and sons,
Friends and colleagues, each precious one.
Let us honor their memory, stand as one,
Defiant against hatred, our unity won.
For in the face of adversity, we rise,
United by hope, love's eternal ties.
On this day, we remember with sorrow,
But also with strength, a brighter tomorrow.
For in the face of darkness, we find the light,
Together we heal, united, we fight.
The towers may have fallen, but not our resolve,
To stand strong, united, as problems evolve.
In the hearts of heroes, the spirit lives on,
And we vow to honor them, from dusk till dawn.
So let us not forget this fateful day,
When the world changed in an unimaginable way.
May peace prevail, and hearts be healed,
As the echoes of 9/11 are forever sealed.
"From Ashes We Rise"
By Michael Barger
Runner-Up
In the shadow of 9/11, we witnessed the darkest facets of human nature, where cruelty and hatred consumed lives and shook the world to its core. But amidst the smoke and rubble, we also witnessed acts of unfathomable courage, bravery, and selfless sacrifice that inspire us to this day.
As a creator, I am compelled to reflect upon the dichotomy of that fateful day. The extremes of cruelty and heroism serve as a constant reminder of the choices we face in life. It reminds us that even in the face of unimaginable evil, we have the power to respond with unwavering goodness.
In my art, I seek to capture this duality. I paint scenes of destruction and chaos, juxtaposed with images of hope and resilience. I use bold strokes to convey the raw emotion of that day, the pain, and the anger, but I also infuse my work with vibrant colors symbolizing the indomitable human spirit.
In my poetry, I weave words that dance between the shadows and the light. I write of the towers that fell and the lives lost, but I also pen verses of the firefighters who rushed into the inferno and the ordinary people who became heroes. Through my words, I aim to convey the message that even in our darkest moments, there is potential for renewal and growth.
Beyond my creative expressions, I am inspired to take action. I volunteer at local organizations that serve those affected by trauma and violence, offering a listening ear and a helping hand. I strive to be more compassionate in my daily interactions, recognizing that a kind word or a small gesture can make a significant difference in someone's life.
9/11 serves as a stark reminder that we live in a world where we can choose to respond to adversity in two ways. We can either allow it to fuel hatred and division, or we can use it as a catalyst for personal and collective growth, compassion, and unity. I choose the latter.
In a world that often feels fractured, I believe that through our collective actions, we can mend the wounds inflicted by cruelty and hatred. We can be the architects of a better future, one built on the principles of love, empathy, and understanding.
As we commemorate the 21st anniversary of 9/11, let us not forget the lessons it taught us. Let us remember that in the face of evil, there is the potential for boundless good. Let us continue to create, write, and act in ways that bring healing and hope to others, ensuring that the legacy of those who perished on that fateful day is one of resilience, unity, and unwavering love for humanity.
As a creator, I am compelled to reflect upon the dichotomy of that fateful day. The extremes of cruelty and heroism serve as a constant reminder of the choices we face in life. It reminds us that even in the face of unimaginable evil, we have the power to respond with unwavering goodness.
In my art, I seek to capture this duality. I paint scenes of destruction and chaos, juxtaposed with images of hope and resilience. I use bold strokes to convey the raw emotion of that day, the pain, and the anger, but I also infuse my work with vibrant colors symbolizing the indomitable human spirit.
In my poetry, I weave words that dance between the shadows and the light. I write of the towers that fell and the lives lost, but I also pen verses of the firefighters who rushed into the inferno and the ordinary people who became heroes. Through my words, I aim to convey the message that even in our darkest moments, there is potential for renewal and growth.
Beyond my creative expressions, I am inspired to take action. I volunteer at local organizations that serve those affected by trauma and violence, offering a listening ear and a helping hand. I strive to be more compassionate in my daily interactions, recognizing that a kind word or a small gesture can make a significant difference in someone's life.
9/11 serves as a stark reminder that we live in a world where we can choose to respond to adversity in two ways. We can either allow it to fuel hatred and division, or we can use it as a catalyst for personal and collective growth, compassion, and unity. I choose the latter.
In a world that often feels fractured, I believe that through our collective actions, we can mend the wounds inflicted by cruelty and hatred. We can be the architects of a better future, one built on the principles of love, empathy, and understanding.
As we commemorate the 21st anniversary of 9/11, let us not forget the lessons it taught us. Let us remember that in the face of evil, there is the potential for boundless good. Let us continue to create, write, and act in ways that bring healing and hope to others, ensuring that the legacy of those who perished on that fateful day is one of resilience, unity, and unwavering love for humanity.
9/11: A Legacy of Courage and Selflessness
By Natalia Brignoni
Third Place
"Heroism is not blind courage: it is selfless action; it is knowing the odds are stacked against you, but feeling that you must do what you do for the good of others."- John Baldoni. Twenty-two years ago, on September 1, 2001, our nation was attacked by terrorists. Chaos immediately arose: screaming, crying, sirens blaring, buildings collapsing everywhere. Who in the world could stop this horror and cruelty?
Essentially, our first responders are the heroes that saved us. A hero is someone who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. The first responders who answered the call of this savagery have earned the title of heroes. They did not demonstrate "blind courage"; they showed the epitome of selfless action. Those first responders have families, and they responded to this crisis not knowing if they would ever see their loved ones again. Those first responders are human beings with their own lives to live, and they sacrificed their lives for our country. That is the ultimate sacrifice. That is how selfless our first responders were. This selflessness is recognized through memorials built to honor our fallen first responders, but it should also be recognized in actions throughout our everyday lives. This task can be as simple as complimenting someone, holding the door open for the person behind you, or volunteering for your community. We cannot let our first responders' sacrifice for our country be in vain. It's our responsibility to inspire others to be selfless, just like those first responders inspired us.
Furthermore, we must remember the self-sacrificing acts of the 40 passengers on Flight 93. Had it not been for their acts of selflessness, who knows where we would be standing today? Instead of succumbing to fear, they collectively decided to fight back against the hijackers. These passengers, from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, united in their determination to prevent further loss of innocent lives. Their heroic actions of unwavering bravery and selflessness serve as an enduring testament to the human capacity for extraordinary acts of courage, even in the most dire circumstances, and their actions undoubtedly saved countless lives that day.
In summary, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, forever changed the world, leaving an unerasable mark on the collective memory of humanity. Beyond the devastation and loss, the day also witnessed countless acts of courage and selflessness that serve as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. These acts by our first responders, the passengers on Flight 93, and other heroes on 9/11 inspire me today to strive to be a better civilian, person, friend, daughter, and teammate every day. Reflecting on the selfless actions of those on 9/11, I am determined to demonstrate what it means to be selfless and courageous every day.
Essentially, our first responders are the heroes that saved us. A hero is someone who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. The first responders who answered the call of this savagery have earned the title of heroes. They did not demonstrate "blind courage"; they showed the epitome of selfless action. Those first responders have families, and they responded to this crisis not knowing if they would ever see their loved ones again. Those first responders are human beings with their own lives to live, and they sacrificed their lives for our country. That is the ultimate sacrifice. That is how selfless our first responders were. This selflessness is recognized through memorials built to honor our fallen first responders, but it should also be recognized in actions throughout our everyday lives. This task can be as simple as complimenting someone, holding the door open for the person behind you, or volunteering for your community. We cannot let our first responders' sacrifice for our country be in vain. It's our responsibility to inspire others to be selfless, just like those first responders inspired us.
Furthermore, we must remember the self-sacrificing acts of the 40 passengers on Flight 93. Had it not been for their acts of selflessness, who knows where we would be standing today? Instead of succumbing to fear, they collectively decided to fight back against the hijackers. These passengers, from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, united in their determination to prevent further loss of innocent lives. Their heroic actions of unwavering bravery and selflessness serve as an enduring testament to the human capacity for extraordinary acts of courage, even in the most dire circumstances, and their actions undoubtedly saved countless lives that day.
In summary, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, forever changed the world, leaving an unerasable mark on the collective memory of humanity. Beyond the devastation and loss, the day also witnessed countless acts of courage and selflessness that serve as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. These acts by our first responders, the passengers on Flight 93, and other heroes on 9/11 inspire me today to strive to be a better civilian, person, friend, daughter, and teammate every day. Reflecting on the selfless actions of those on 9/11, I am determined to demonstrate what it means to be selfless and courageous every day.
2022 Warren County 9/11 Remembrance
2021 Warren County 9/11 Remembrance (20th Anniversary)
Stand2Serve is dedicated to serving our police, fire, military and veterans in our area with live events honoring their service and sacrifice for our nation. We promote events and service projects across Warren County to foster understanding and strengthen community based on timeless ideals of liberty and justice and serving others for the greater good. Events like this year’s 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Remembrance and our “Share the Light” campaign are the vehicle by which we inspire our next generation of citizens, leaders, poets and artists in our schools to engage in our remembrances. Our young people inspire us as a community with their generous acts of community service and their beautiful creations of art, poetry and sculpture. Our next generations' creation of art and their participation with us in our community events are our gift to our first responders, military, veterans who serve our community. Stand2Serve and the talented Digital Media students at The Warren County Career Center are working together to create a digital and physical compilation of our 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Remembrance as a lasting gift of our appreciation and gratitude. Join us in our "Share the Light" as we engage in future community service projects, share our gifts and talents, and create more honoring events to bless others.
Visit #Sharethelightwarrencounty to view acts of kindness and service across our community and to include your own.
Visit #Sharethelightwarrencounty to view acts of kindness and service across our community and to include your own.
2020 Warren County 9/11 Remembrance
2019 Warren County 9/11 Remembrance
Each year the community of Warren County and our local fire, law enforcement, military and veterans gather on the morning of September 11 at the county 9/11 Memorial to reflect upon the great sacrifice and loss our nation experienced from the terror attacks carried out on that tragic day in 2001. Over 3,000 innocent lives were lost when terrorists hijacked 4 passenger jets and struck our hearts.
Eighteen years later, our next generation of young people from Kings, Lebanon and Springboro High Schools join us in remembering 9/11. Our students created the original artwork, poems and insights as an honoring memory of the courage, service and unity that came out of that day. The fourth grade class of Donovan Elementary also sang the beautiful lyrics of “We Remember” on the morning of our 9/11 Remembrance.
We recognize the generosity of our local students. They donated many of these thoughtful pieces of artwork to our local first responders for them to remember that there is hope. That they will never forget.
Our next generation inspires us to do better, to be better.
May we never forget.
Eighteen years later, our next generation of young people from Kings, Lebanon and Springboro High Schools join us in remembering 9/11. Our students created the original artwork, poems and insights as an honoring memory of the courage, service and unity that came out of that day. The fourth grade class of Donovan Elementary also sang the beautiful lyrics of “We Remember” on the morning of our 9/11 Remembrance.
We recognize the generosity of our local students. They donated many of these thoughtful pieces of artwork to our local first responders for them to remember that there is hope. That they will never forget.
Our next generation inspires us to do better, to be better.
May we never forget.
Artwork from Kings High School
The students of Kings High School were inspired by the unity of September 12, 2001.
Poetry by Kings High School Students
Remembrance
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9/11 Poem
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I can’t remember a time when I didn’t see the grey smoke,
on the grey buildings, on the grey streets, with grey suits, and grey emotions. I can’t remember, and I will never will. The day predates me. It has me beat by 584 days, 83 weeks, 14,016 hours, 840,960 minutes, 50,457,600 seconds, and a culture shift that should take a lifetime. No one looks at that date on the calendar the same. No one looks at New York’s iconic skyline the same. No one looks at the Pentagon the same respectful way. No one looks at that field that same bored way. Maybe people were nice after. Maybe we respect our fellow neighbor a bit more. I do know that the people who ran in when common sense told them run the other way, I know they are heroes. The country came together to tell them so. Maybe, when faced with tragedy, all everyone needs is a hero. That’s what made them united. On September 12th, when the sun shined again and everyone needed to find a way to believe that it was good again. So, they saw their country, saw it healing, and started seeing the American flag blowing in that almost Autumn wind. Maybe, they stood up straighter. Maybe, for the first time in their life they knew the home of the brave was their home too. Copyrighted 2019 by Sarah Dykhuizen. All rights reserved. |
tears fell
gasps sounded pain was felt as the entirety of the united states population witnessed the horrific events of September 11, 2001. hijacked planes ripped through towers tearing through the fabric of America as we knew it. horror despair every horrible emotion rushed through the hole left in the heart of America. we were expected to crumple, to fold, to become un-united to allow this event to ruin us. but no instead we all bore the hole we experienced the same feelings as our neighbors, our friends, our enemies, our relatives becoming connected to each and every person around us. we related to each other all of us for the first time in the American history. the residents of New York City rushed outside and instead of letting the sight crush them and burn them and break them they stood together and joined figurative hands and became one. they watched as first responders rushed to save people exhibiting extreme bravery- some even sacrificing their lives for us for New York City for their country. we all witnessed – or heard about – the same thing. some of us were not alive during the tragedy and have only heard stories about it yet we can still envision the sadness and destruction in our mind as if we were there. this event that was meant to tear us apart only brought us together all of us the people - the first responders - the government - the president and the hole in the American heart formed in everyone’s heart linking us all together as people of the united states of democracy of government by the people, for the people, and of the people of our home, a kind nation, a caring nation that will always be there for us for we are united. Copyrighted 2019 By Hanna Ballard. All rights reserved. |
Lebanon High School
The students of Lebanon High School created a U.S. flag that reflects the virtues and ideals they saw demonstrated in the acts of service and sacrifice on the tragic day of 9/11:
Photos from Ground Zero
John Patrick served in our local law enforcement canine search and rescue with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for thirty years. John and his trusted German Shepherd “Guese” were at Ground Zero in New York City within 48 hours of the terror attacks-- searching for possible survivors and recovering those who perished among the ash, molten steel beams and debris that were once the World Trade Center.
He shares his photographs of what he saw at Ground Zero:
He shares his photographs of what he saw at Ground Zero:
Inspiration
September 11, 2001, was a day of contradictions. A day the nation stood still and watched in horror the destruction, sorrow, and suffering man can bring to another when a heart is filled with hatred and darkness.
This day also illuminated the beauty and nobility of selflessness, sacrifice, courage and hope. Men and women running into, not away from, the burning towers. Ordinary men and women who displayed extraordinary courage and bravery in the face of insurmountable challenges.
This day also illuminated the beauty and nobility of selflessness, sacrifice, courage and hope. Men and women running into, not away from, the burning towers. Ordinary men and women who displayed extraordinary courage and bravery in the face of insurmountable challenges.
The Call |
Shadows of Courage
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“Shadows of Courage” is our gift of love and compassion to all the precious people who lost their lives and gave their lives in the tragedy and aftermath of 9/11 and those who continue with loss.
Our song gives voice to the suffering and wisdom to the pain. It is in the selfless acts of compassion, sacrifice and service born from the shadows of destruction that speak of hope and promise. We must, as a nation, stand together with God and give each other the love, compassion and forgiveness God Himself shows us. The walls of isolation, strife and selfish ambition must come down. Fellowship, unity and love for one another must be our call. We saw this divine love and compassion in the acts of courage on 9/11. The United States of America was consecrated as one nation under God at President George Washington’s first inauguration and the service at St. Paul’s Chapel by Ground Zero in 1789. The foundation of our country was built on God. God is our hope. God is our future. God was with our founding fathers at the birth of this great nation. God can deliver us today from our strife and dissension if we turn to Him and follow His path. God calls us to love and to serve others in their need and distress. We witnessed this obedience in the extraordinary courage and selfless sacrifice made by many on 9/11 and its aftermath. We must remember the wisdom born from the pain of this day. And walk the same path as these brave souls did before us. Let us stand with God, as “one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” That is our future and the hope of America. |
Be still my heart,
as I strive to see a beautiful, still morning of piercing blue, silent breeze. Outlines of concrete stood stark against a striking still sky, proclaiming man’s power in boldness and with pride. The routine and familiar would be strewn to the side, when white streaks would scar many hearts, many lives. Our eyes would be fixed, in a trembling pose, as the smoldering embers revealed its source. White clouds of smoke did violence to the sky, as man stood confounded, contemplating the whys. But the seeds of a deception forged from hatred and darkened minds would be made clear to all, like a veil pulled from our eyes. The mortal wounds inflicted on the innocents and their lives spoke volumes of sacrifice and courage born on faces and with sighs. Courage and sacrifice; Love and faith. These were the fruits born from the dust of twisted fate. The shadows of the lost live on in our lives. Courage and sacrifice stand As victors over lies. Be quiet my soul! Take precious wisdom from the pain. Persevere I must live, with each and every day. Share stories of our loves, and the wisdom of our pains. These precious gifts we offer are God’s grace and His way. Rise we must go and do God’s will and His deeds. Serving those who now suffer, with our love and our tears. Copyrighted 2016-2019 by Robin Kiley. All rights reserved. |
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