McKinley Elementary 4th graders marched with signs and flags in hand. Most weren't alive 11 years ago, but they can still honor the heroes right across the street at South Bend Fire Station Number Three.
"It's a great way to have the kids learn about 9-11," says Dawn Cuskaden, fourth grade teacher.
"These kids are about 10 years old. So September 11, even though it's so fresh in our minds, it didn't exist in their lives. It's important that we don't forget what happened and what these guys did for us that day," says principal, Deb Martin.
An event many of us can recall so clearly, these kids are learning about in class.
"A lot of people in our class were just crying tears because it was so sad," says student, Brandy Williams.
"It made me feel sad that they did that, it's not right that they did that," says student Aly Brocher.
It's a hard lesson to teach kids, but these educators believe students should know.
"People lost their lives and it could happen again. We never know what could happen or what the future brings. It's important that they know that no matter what happens, there are heroes out there," says Martin.
"I want the kids to understand that America is a place of freedom and rights and they should be proud," says Cuskaden.
For these kids, the best way to remember the past is by honoring the heroes they DO know, like local firefighters.
"It's really important that we thank our heroes for doing what they do and risking their lives for us," says Williams.
And they thanked their heroes with cookies, cards, and poems.
"They had a smile on their face and they were so happy so I think they really liked it," says Brocher.
"It means a great deal to us to see that these kids recognize the work we do and appreciate the work we do," says chief, Mark Catanzarite.
9-11, a day of remembering for some and learning for others.
