Sarasota Military Academy: Cadets Honor 9/11 With Flag Salute and Speech

Army JROTC Cadets from Sarasota Military Academy lower the flag on Sept. 11. (Photo by Cadet Anthony Molina-Carrasco)

Written by Cadet Anthony Molina-Carrasco

On Sept. 11, Sarasota Military Academy’s Honor Guard lowered the American flag to half-mast as the Corps of Cadets gathered for a solemn morning ceremony honoring the lives lost during the tragic attacks of September 11th, 2001. This year’s event brought together all 650 students, as well as faculty and staff, reaffirming the importance of reflection, respect, and remembrance.

Cadet Zachary Jewell commanded the regiment, guiding the Corps through the precise procedures of morning formation. While these routines are a daily practice in discipline and unity, the Sept. 11 ceremony carries a deeper significance, turning familiar drills into acts of honor and tribute.

After the flag was lowered, the cadets observed a moment of silence, reflecting on the lives lost and the heroism displayed that day. The silence was followed by a powerful speech delivered by Cadet Sam Bonser, who recounted the events of the attacks with detail and solemnity. He reminded cadets of the nearly 3,000 lives lost, including the passengers of hijacked flights and the countless men and women who served in the resulting war on terror. He emphasized the unity of Americans in the face of tragedy, quoting former President George W. Bush, “This is a day when all Americans from every walk of life unite in our resolve for justice and peace… None of us will ever forget this day.”

The ceremony concluded with the haunting notes of the Taps bugle call echoing across campus as the cadets rendered a final salute to the fallen. In that moment, SMA stood together not just as a school, but as a community committed to honor, service, and the enduring promise to “Never Forget.” The day served as a poignant reminder of courage, sacrifice, and unity, reinforcing the Academy’s dedication to instilling these values in every cadet each year.