Appreciating veterans’ heroism, courage

Military veterans, Huntington Beach firefighters and 900 middle school students took the time to remember what happened eight years ago Friday. For 12-year-old Lexie Martinez and many of the tweens, the full significance and devastation of 9/11 couldn’t be comprehended at the time of the attack.

Marina View Middle School came together to remember the history of Sept. 11 and pay tribute to those who died and those who are still willing to give up everything for their country.

“Today, we are here to celebrate our heroic military who have [risked] and still are risking their lives for us,” eighth-grader Laney Lovesteen said.

During the assembly, Lexie sang “America (My Country, ‘Tis of Thee)” and dedicated the song to those who lost loved ones in the attack on America. Comprehending the pain of losing a friend or family member is something Lexie understands.

The eighth-grader said she knows people who have lost family members.

The attack isn’t something Lexie understood at the time. She said she only really remembered people crying.

Through time, she said, she learned the full importance of remembering the day and the innocent lives lost.

“It was an honor being up there with them. I appreciate their courage,” Lexie said of being onstage with the veterans and firefighters.

The students have been learning about the history of the day in school. The sixth grade came together to plan the day and learn about why the terrorist attacks happened and the importance of remembering, said teacher Susan McDonald.

McDonald had her students write an “I am an American” poem in class. Some of the poems were very touching, she said.

In the assembly, a half-dozen men, all veterans from World War II, Korea or Vietnam, in the American Legion Post 133 sat on the stage in uniforms with the colorful reminders of their heroic deeds pinned to their chests.

Veteran and former Huntington Beach Mayor Dave Sullivan said the terrible events should always be remembered and the work of the military, police and fire departments not forgotten.

Most of all, he reminded the students of the strength and courage of the nation.

“No evil, no matter how bad, will ever break the spirit of America,” Sullivan said.

‘I Am’

I am an American

I wonder if terrorism will ever end

I hear words of friendship

I see peace between the nations

I want to make peace

I am an American

I pretend 9/11 never happened I feel sad for the people who lost their lives in war

I touch the land of freedom

I worry the terrorists will bomb the innocent

I cry for the brave people who died in 9/11

I am an American

I understand why others put their lives in danger

I say freedom is forever

I dream of no terrorism

I try to help my country

I hope for world peace

I am an American

sixth grade