Schools throughout the Davis School District hosted Patriot Day activities, helping a generation of students who were born after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 learn about the day's significance and honor the lives of those who died. Patriot Day is observed nationally as a day of service and remembrance.
In the bustling halls of West Clinton Elementary School where the shuffling feet of children and the anticipation of the day fills the air, there exists a very special assembly and celebration every year on Patriots Day. This day has become a tradition for West Clinton and the students are eager each year to honor those that serve as well as remember those that lost their lives.
One parent, Stephanie Nelson, has planned and prepared the Patriots Day assembly for the past nine years and wouldn’t change it for the world. She started the tradition when she was the PTA president and has continued planning and preparing the assembly ever since.
“The students look forward to this assembly every year,” said Nelson. “In fact, my son is in 7th grade, and he wishes he could have been here again this year for this day.”
This year’s assembly included a presentation of the flag by local Veterans, the West Clinton Clipper Choir sang The Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America, a special salute to the Armed Forces and a keynote presentation made by Maria Johnson from The Major Brent Taylor Foundation 9/11 Project.
At nearby Ellison Park Elementary, the field was lined with American flags for the school's annual Patriot Day Honor Walk.
Students wore red, white and blue to show support for those who serve, protect, heal and help the community. While walking a lap around the field, students were encouraged to think about the sacrifices made for their safety and freedom.
Community and family members who currently serve or have served in the military or as police officers, firefighters, EMTs and medics were also invited to attend.
