For 22 years, we’ve reminded ourselves to “never forget” the innocent victims and the fallen heroes of September 11th. At Exeter Township Senior High, we’ve held tightly onto that promise each year with a moving and patriotic school ceremony meant to honor a local first responder; pay homage to the police, fire and EMS workers who protect our schools and our community; and to remind our students about the terrible events on that tragic day years before they were born. 

“Although none of our students were alive in 2001, we all know that day and the years that followed were life-changing,” said Principal Mr. Tom Campbell. “We are glad to share our experiences and stories with our students and hope that those conversations continue at home. Everyone who was old enough to remember that day remembers exactly where they were and what the days and weeks after it were like.”

Following a moving violin performance by junior Esteban Ruiz-Velazquez and the senior high marching band and color guard, Assistant Principal Mr. Frank Vecchio and Social Studies teacher Mr. Matt Burkhart spoke to students about their remembrances of 9/11 as a young teacher and college-aged student, respectively. Mr. Vecchio then presented a flag to paramedic, Mr. Jon Paul Staley, who was selected by members of Life Lion, and was described as an altruistic servant whose commitment to saving lives goes beyond the call of duty. “He is selfless and and has a passion for providing critical care,” said Mr. Vecchio as he shook Mr. Staley’s hand in recognition of his dedication to his decades of work as a first responder in Berks, Montgomery and Chester counties. 

“Today we take the time to honor first responders and soldiers who made great sacrifices on 9/11 and every day since then,” said Mr. Vecchio during the ceremony. “Thank you for coming together as a community to do just that.”