On Tuesday, September 11, 2001, the Islamic terrorist group, al-Queda, hijacked four airliners and carried out attacks. Two of the four airlines were flown into the World Trade Center in New York City, and the others hit the Pentagon in Washington D.C. Over 3000 people were killed, with about 400 being firefighters and police officers; this is the largest loss of life by a foreign attack on American soil.
Every year, La Crescenta has a parade commemorating those who lost their lives and those who lost loved ones during 9/11. A parade of cars pass through the neighborhood, and students and teachers from the elementary, middle, and high schools in the area all pause their daily routines to go out and watch. Crescenta Valley High School’s marching band comes out to play music as the parade passes through. Meanwhile, students cheer as cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles, which are decorated with patriotic objects and colors, drive past.
The parade reminds people of the tragic day when thousands lost their lives, and many lost their loved ones. All those who sacrificed their lives are also remembered. The annual parades are important now especially because there are many who are too young to remember. Many children watch without truly knowing the history behind it. However, although it has been over a decade since the attacks, the day must not be forgotten, and it is the duty of Americans to make sure that it will always be remembered, even by those who weren’t there to see it.
“I personally don’t remember 9/11 because I was only a couple months old,” sophomore Vivien Adamian said, “But the first time I saw the parade, it really opened my eyes. I didn’t know that there was so much meaning to the day. I’ll never forget that first time I saw the parade. I’ll never forget what happened on 9/11. And I’ll never forget those who fought and fight to keep this country safe.”
La Crescenta, along with many other places around America, will continue to commemorate 9/11. And every year, millions will watch in remembrance, and think of those who lost and sacrificed for their country.