By Hanna Singh
Local first responders were given a heartfelt thank-you by students on the morning of September 11th at A.E. Phillips Laboratory School during their annual Patriot Day program.
The event honored local fire and law enforcement officers, as well as members of the Louisiana National Guard, in recognition of their service.
The program began with opening remarks from A.E. Phillips Director Jenny Blalock, followed by students recounting the tragic events of 9/11. The Bullpup Choir then delivered moving renditions of several patriotic songs, including “This Land is Your Land” and “God Bless the USA.”
Judge Jeff Robinson then spoke about importance of remembering 9/11 and honoring the brave men and women who serve our communities.
“This is a day that we should never forget. It’s one of those days where you know where you were when it happened. I was at my office in Jonesboro when I heard the news. I turned on the TV and I couldn’t believe my eyes,” Robinson said. “First responders have a very special place in our hearts. That’s what we want to honor today, those people who stand in harm’s way for us and what they do for us.
“I’m going to quote scripture from the Bible here to say it best. John 15:13 says ‘greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ These guys go out every day and put their lives in harm’s way. They show that love that the Bible talks about, what it means to put others needs before themselves.”
Present members from each of the recognized agencies were then presented with handmade posters created by students from different grade levels. Representative students from each grade proudly brought their class posters forward, personally thanking the first responders for their service and dedication.
Agencies that were honored at the Patriot Day Program included the Ruston Fire Department, Lincoln Parish Fire Department, Lincoln Parish Office of Homeland Security, Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Department, Louisiana Tech Police Department, Ruston Police Department, Louisiana National Guard, Ruston Marshall’s Office, and the Louisiana State Probation and Parole Board. Several current and former A.E. Phillip parents were specially recognized and thanked for their appearance at the program.
Each year, the A.E. Phillips Bullpups learn about the significance of 9/11 and dedicate time to honor the sacrifices made for our country. This commitment is expressed through their annual Patriot Day program, where they directly thank the heroes in the Lincoln Parish community. Director Jenny Blalock emphasized the importance of educating students about the events of 9/11 and the need to express gratitude for those who serve.
“A commitment was made, in 2001, by the faculty and staff of A.E. Phillips to always remember the loss and sacrifice associated with September 11th, to educate our Bullpups about the events and implications of this day in history, and to convey sincere appreciation to our local heroes for the commitment they make to protect us,” said Blalock.
“The current faculty and staff are continuing to honor this commitment of those who came before us because we believe in this charge. We believe it is important to always be thankful to those that serve our school and community. September 11th is a perfect day to express our gratitude to first responders for the way they selflessly put others before themselves.”
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