La Mirada High Staff and Students Gather to Remember September 11th

On September 11, 2023, students gathered in the quad to remember the lives lost in 2001, the 22nd anniversary of the tragic event. ASB Secretary, Alexander Colocho organized the event for staff and students to gather and pay their respects. To start off the assembly, members from the choir sang, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Safety Education Officer, Mary Cipres, spoke first and shared about where she was on that day in 2001. Trumpet player Tyler Kong performed “Taps.” The next speaker, History teacher, Kim Brooks, shared about Flight 93, the airplane headed towards Washington D.C., “They took a vote. What’s more American? They voted to attack the cabin, to take over the plane…they knew they were going to save other lives. That’s us!” He continued to emphasize the importance of the American spirit and the ability to help others. Skyler Thackerson played the chimes 22 times to reflect on the years since then. Colocho spoke to the crowd announcing the observance of a moment of silence in honor of the lives lost. Principal Ben Webster remarked on the significance of caring for each other and being grateful for family and friends. Each year, teachers and staff emphasize the importance of remembering the tragedy to honor the victims and to never forget.