Overhills High School: JROTC Honors 9/11 with Solemn Remembrance Ceremony

Overhills High School Resource Officer, Deputy Murphy and Cadet Nina Landolfi, present a wreath at a ceremonial lowering of the flag to half-staff. (Photo by Cadet Kailynn Zenj-Ra)

Written by Cadet Kailynn Zenj-Ra

On Sept. 11, Overhills High School JROTC, Spring Lake, North Carolina, held a moving and respectful ceremony to honor the victims, first responders, and heroes of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Held in front of the school’s flagpole, the ceremony drew a crowd of students, faculty, local veterans, and community members. The event began with opening remarks from the interim principal, Frederick Clarida. The color guard presented the colors during the national anthem and held a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m.—the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.

Led by the Special Project Officer, Cadet Crissy Mitchell, leaders took turns speaking about the significance of the day and its lasting impact on the nation.

“Today is not just about remembering tragedy,” said Cadet Kaiser Clark. “It’s about honoring the resilience, bravery, and unity that came in its aftermath.”

The ceremony also included a wreath-laying presented by School Resource Officer, Deputy Murphy and Cadet Nina Landolfi, a ceremonial lowering of the flag to half-staff, and a performance of “Taps” by a student bugler.

The faculty, staff, and community praised the cadets for their professionalism and dedication.

“Our cadets understand the importance of service, sacrifice, and remembrance. They did a tremendous job honoring those lost and reminding us why we must never forget” said retired Major Alexis McClain, Senior Army Instructor.

The annual ceremony is a tradition at OHS and a cornerstone of the JROTC’s mission to instill leadership, citizenship, and respect for American values.