Smithfield --- On September 11, 2023, the new Principal of Smithfield-Selma Senior High School (SSS), Crystal Gregory, held the school’s annual ceremony to commemorate the historical events of September 11, 2001. On that day in 2001, Al Qaeda terrorists hijacked four commercial aircraft and used them as bombs to attack the United States. One plane was steered into the Pentagon. Another crashed into a field in Pennsylvania when the passengers resisted the terrorists. The other two aircraft were used to destroy the World Trade Center in New York City.
SSS JROTC students presenting the colors
Gary Ferro, a retired law enforcement officer with the New York Police Department, was the guest speaker. He recounted his experiences of helping to pull people to safety at the World Trade Center. SSS student Michael Davis Schmidt played Taps to honor the nearly 3,000 people who perished on 9/11. SSS students Elizabeth Kennemur and Anei O’Neal sang the National Anthem. JROTC Cadet Lieutenant Commander Juan Lorenzo served as Master of Ceremonies.
SSS JROTC salute the flag as Michael Davis Schmidt plays Taps
This annual commemoration educates students about an event in recent history. It also serves to honor first responders who risk their lives daily to maintain the safety of their community. The SSS Fire Science Academy led by teacher Edward Twigg and local first responders were present at the ceremony. School board members and local government leaders were also present to help honor first responders and those who lost their lives on 9/11.