Long Branch Students Asked To Remember the Heroes, Lessons Learned from Sept. 11

Many students who attended the Long Branch High School Sept. 11 commemoration service on Tuesday morning where not yet born or were very young when the attacks occurred.

Long Branch School District Superintendent told students to ask themselves, "Why was I asked to be here today."

Some of the responses included, "to join together in times of need," "to remember those who died and those who supported us," and "to show respect for those who help us stay free."

Salvatore said those were all good answers and that students should never forget what the day means.

"We don't want (9/11) to be just another page in the history book," Salvatore said. "There are other lessons to be learned."

Several guests were invited to speak at the ceremony including Long Branch Board of Education President Bill Dangler, New Jersey Senator Jennifer Beck, Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini and Long Branch Councilwoman Joy Bastelli.

They all spoke about where they were the day of the attacks and said what the day meant to them.

Members of the Long Branch High School Jr. Air Force R.O.T.C. unveiled a piece of World Trade Center steel given to the district last year, and then folded the American flag that was draped over it.

The ceremony was also highlighted by musical performances from the Long Branch High School Band, Anastasia School, Morris Avenue School and the Long Branch Middle School Choir.