Dressed in patriotic colors, students throughout the district paused their schoolwork to pay tribute to the fallen heroes of Sept. 11 and the 20th anniversary of this infamous day in history.

At Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School, a formal salute was arranged by sixth grade English teacher Patricia Alway and included a blessing from Reverend Larry Chadwick and Rabbi Rosenthal, patriotic music by the Suffolk County Police Department Pipe and Drum Corps, the singing of the national anthem by retired NYPD detective and district security guard Tania Slaters and the planting of flags around the Sept. 11 memorial by honored VIPs. Students Paityn DeRiso, Christopher Lindsay, AnnaSophia Murphy and Braden Zuccaro also read original poems that punctuated the upbeat message that resonated throughout the ceremony.

OBMS Principal Sue Bailey reminded the audience and students that, “We can honor our heroes by living every day with a compassionate and generous heart.”

John Pearl Elementary School also held a Patriots Day celebration at the front lawn’s memorial. Principal Susan White explained that the celebration of Sept. 11 is a way to thank the heroes in the world and to think about the people who protect lives and keep them safe. Original poems and thoughts about being a hero were read by fifth grade students Bella Alsano and Preston Piorkowski, and Lilly Leranello led the students in the Pledge of Allegiance. Music teacher Bonnie Vernon also led the students in patriot tunes.

On Sept. 3, in preparation for the anniversary of Sept. 11, Edith Slocum Elementary School Principal John Delio welcomed community volunteers who decorated the campus with American flags. An additional display of patriotism and respect for the families who lost loved ones on Sept. 11, veterans and first responders were also on display in the main courtyard.