PHS AFJROTC pays fitting tribute to 9/11 victims and first responders

The Piscataway High School Air Force Junior ROTC delivered emotional and fitting tributes to 9/11 victims and survivors on the 25th anniversary of the attacks.

Throughout the day, AFJROTC cadets gathered at the football stadium to read the names of all the victims of the 9/11 attacks as well as complete a memorial stair climb in stadium’s bleachers. These two efforts were meant to remember the innocent lives lost as well as the first responders who ran toward danger as they climbed the Twin Towers.

“Thank you for your outstanding dedication and hard work in commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11,” Assistant Principal Dr. Maria Cetta wrote in a thank you note to the AFJROTC cadets. “Your commitment to honoring this solemn day was evident in every detail.”

The cadets had planned to complete 110 flights of stairs, or approximately 2,071 steps, in an effort to replicate the many stairs that first responders had to climb. One cadet would run as many steps as they could, then be relieved by another cadet.

But the cadets competed the 110 flights in one class period, and decided to keep going. By the end of the day, they had completed an incredible 1,370 flights of stairs!

“A special salute goes to those who took on the physical and reflective challenge of the 110-flight stair memorial while reading the names of the fallen,” Dr. Cetta’s note continued. “Your leadership, reverence, and service truly embodied the highest values of the AFJROTC program and brought our entire school community together in meaningful remembrance. We are immensely proud of your efforts.”

It took the cadets about 4½ hours to read all the victims’ names aloud, so they decided to start over. Going a little more quickly, they were able to honor each victim twice.

Throughout the day, administrators, staff, and students stopped by to listen as the names were read, and watch the effort on the steps. Some students and staff joined in to contribute to the stair climb, including Assistant Principal Antonio Berdecia. 

Meanwhile, the hallway near the AFJROTC classes was adorned with patriotic symbols, historical facts, and information about how people around the world were affected by 9/11. It will also highlight the many nations that offered rescue assistance, medical support, emergency expertise, humanitarian aid, and other help as our country began to recover and heal.