The evening began with rain, and, according to several students, it was almost as if the sky itself was expressing its sorrow. Seventy MSMS students attended the 9/11 remembrance ceremony to pay homage to the lives lost 14 years ago during the destruction of the Twin Towers.

The ceremony began with Deldrick Adams, the 2016 Class President, offering words of welcome and thanks to those in attendance. “The incident of 9/11 was tragic, but what we have now is hope. Hope in a brighter tomorrow and a better future,”said Adams.

The program continued with Michelle Li, Class of 2016 SGA President, leading the Pledge of Allegiance, and Katelyn Jackson playing America the Beautiful on the violin.

Jackson said, “9/11 was a day that our country will never forget, it will help us foster strength and find joys in the things we take for granted.”

The Voices in Harmony Choir performed the “Star Spangled Banner.” Timothy Spivey, a member of VIH, said, “Regardless of the towers descent, the people will never forget.”

The Drama Club performed several dramatic readings of children, mothers, brothers and fathers lost during the destruction of the Twin Towers. They spoke of blinding lights, crashing planes and falling debris and appealed to the sense of compassion and solidarity in times of sorrow.  

Michelle McCullum performed a poem and the Grecian Urn Society’s poems.

Haley Hsu, a member of the Grecian Urn Society said, “9/11 was a number of fear, but now it is a number of safety. It is a day of tragic loss, but now it shows the incredible resilience of the American Spirit.”

Gregory Thompson and Tehya Collier performed “Taps” on their trumpets. They were followed by the clarinet ensemble of Sasha Edwards, Roshanna Stallings, LaToya Bledsoe, Laurel Yarborough and Vivian Van. The program ended with the VIH choir singing  “Proud to be an American.”