Malverne middle school remembers Sept. 11

In a solemn tribute to the heroes of Sept. 11, students at Howard T. Herber Middle School in Malverne marched onto the athletic field dressed in red, white and blue T-shirts to form a giant human "USA." To bring further meaning to the ceremony, the entire student population, led by student Taiye Akinde, recited the Pledge of Allegiance in unison.

Student representatives Olivia St. John, Michael Taylor, Jennifer Avelar and Elyssa Blythe then recited a poem titled “Tears of Strength.” Band members played "The Star Spangled Banner” and other patriotic songs. The ceremony ended with a moment of silence to remember all who lost their lives on that fateful day.

“This is a day we will never forget,” Herber Principal Steven Gilhuley said. “This act of violence was meant to break us, but it made us stronger. Let us reflect, praise and honor the memory of the many first responders who died helping others. Let them always be an inspiration to us.”

Assistant Principal Stephen Benfante echoed that sentiment, saying, "Nine years ago our nation experienced the most vicious attack in its history, and amidst this horrendous act rose the beauty of the American people.”

Benfante continued, “Our school has a strong reputation for community service. The best way to commemorate nine-eleven is to renew our spirit of service. The most powerful acts of service can be expressed in the smallest acts of kindness to one another.”