This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001 and the Passaic County Technical-Vocational Schools family has not, and will never forget the impact those horrific events had on the surrounding communities, New York City, The Pentagon, the United States, and billions of people around the world.
On Friday, September 10th, 2021, PCTVS continued with their renowned patriotic tributes by hosting a moving and emotional 9/11 Ceremony featuring the presentation of Colors by members of the Junior ROTC, the pledge of allegiance by student Gabriella Urrego with the national anthem beautifully sung by Luis Grados from PCTI Vocal Ensemble.
Rounding out the opening of the ceremony was a riveting video titled Why We Should Remember September 11th starring PCTVS Boys and Girls State students Jasmyn Torres, Andima Deb, Jesse Bross, and Sahaf Chowdhury. The incredibly moving video also featured interviews with Passaic County first responders and firefighters Tom Fahy and Joe Allegro, which showed poignant scenes of that fateful day.
Special guest speaker Retired FBI Special Agent Mr. Diego Redondo followed the opening ceremony by speaking to a captivated audience of students and staff about his experience on 9/11. Mr. Redondo also shared pictures and videos from his perspective as an FBI agent first responding to the scene. He reflected on his memories and told the captivated audience, “I may have survived that day but so many others did not. It’s a sad and tragic event worth remembering, and I encourage everyone here today and around the world to never forget what happened on 9/11, and to always hug your loved ones as often as you can!”
The informative and highly emotional ceremony provided the students with a unique firsthand perspective that they will no doubt remember for the rest of their lives.
The PCTVS family will never forget and will eternally honor the memories of all who were lost on September 11th, 2001.
Guest speaker Retired FBI Special Agent Mr. Diego Redondo (center) poses with PCTVS students after the 9/11 Ceremony.