Although many of the students at Lyman Hall Elementary are too young to remember the tragedy that rocked the nation Sept. 11, 2001, Principal Claire Blanchard says The Freedom Walk is an opportunity for students to join the community in commemorating the day as a lesson in history and social studies.
The America Supports You Freedom Walk is a national event that remembers people who lost their lives as well as emergency officials who responded to the disaster. Pentagon employees initiated the event in 2005 when more than 15,000 people walked from the Pentagon to the National Mall.
At 8 a.m. Thursday, the entire school will assemble in the front circle to remember those who lost their lives in the tragedy and to thank those
who continue to protect
the country and it's freedom — police, firefighters, soldiers and other first responders.
After a dedication ceremony by the 6/8 Cavalry, the patriotic parade will circle the school as the students wave flags that they each made in art classes for the event.
"It's really good for the community," Blanchard said of the event, which is open to the entire community. The only requirement to attend the Freedom Walk is to wear red, white and blue.
This is the first year the school has participated in the event.