BY ABBY GOLDBERG
On Wednesday, Sept. 11, CCHS students, faculty and staff gathered to honor the memory of those who perished while giving their lives to save others during the tragic events of 9/11. The ceremony, held annually in the courtyard, provided an opportunity for the community to unite in remembrance and hope.
The ceremony consisted of moving speeches, a moment of silence and the ringing of a commemorative bell. Veterans, school administrators and volunteers from around the county were welcomed, showing their gratitude for first responders while standing as a reminder of their courage and sacrifice.
“I’m happy to be able to help my school in honoring those who served and commemorating those who passed,” SGA class of 2025 corresponding secretary Amanda Safrin said.
The ceremony, led by senior Cadet Neveah Rivera, began with a presentation of the colors by the NJROTC and the singing of the national anthem by Gabriella Amador.
“It’s an honor for us to be presenting and showing honors to these veterans from this tragic event,” Supply Officer Jennifer Gutierrez said. “We show pride through this ceremony to all those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom we all have.”
Commander Tom Mellvile joined the CCHS Cadets and gave a speech reflecting on the victims and first responders who heroically acted during the attacks. The speech ended with a heartfelt thank you to all first responders.
The ceremony proceeded with a plaque presentation by CCHS faculty, staff and students, honoring the lives lost. The plaque remains on campus and serves as a thank you and a reminder of the heroism displayed on 9/11.
“The plaque is dedicated to the first responders and military personnel who lost their lives during 9/11 and sits in the courtyard to remind everyone about their brave sacrifices,” Rivera said.
The event concluded with Sound of Pride performer Samuel Rodriguez, playing “Taps” on the trumpet, as audience members observed a moment of silence. The NJROTC then retired the colors and Cadet Rivera left the crowd with the reminder that “Courage, love and patriotism will always triumph over evil.”
