In a profound display of remembrance, the El Paso Independent School District has once again paid tribute to the victims and heroes of the 9/11 attacks. The annual ceremony marking the 24th anniversary brought together students, staff, and the military community to both honor and learn from one of the nation's darkest days. Colonel Michael V. Soyka of the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Bliss, who recently joined the EPISD Board of Trustees, stood as this year's guest speaker, lending his voice to the narrative of patriotism and service.
Early risers on this day witnessed Colonel Soyka alongside Fort Bliss firefighters taking on a 110-flight stair climb, an enduring tribute to the fallen first responders of the September 11th tragedy, and the lives lost in conflicts that followed. In a similar vein, Fort Bliss soldiers were seen at the University of Texas at El Paso, engaged in their own commemorative climb; all events sought to link the present to a not-so-distant past that shaped the course of global politics and individual lives alike.
The remembrance ceremony commenced at 9 a.m., with the student body actively partaking in the memorial service. Antonio Medrano of El Paso High School's JROTC handled the narration duties, while his peer, Shalom Sosa, delivered a charged rendition of the National Anthem. The JROTC members also presented the colors, setting a tone of somber reverence. Musically, students from Franklin and Burges high schools contributed to the ceremony's emotional gravity with performances of "Taps" and a drum solo, respectively.
It wasn't just students filling the roles of remembrance; EPISD staff members like Fine Arts Facilitator Erin Evans made her vocal contribution with “God Bless America.” Interim Superintendent Martha Aguirre emphasized the importance of such events, as obtained by El Paso ISD, “Colonel Soyka’s presence reminds us of the close bond between Fort Bliss and our El Paso community. His words inspired those in attendance to understand not only the sacrifices made on 9/11, but also the importance of service, resilience, and unity as values that guide us forward.”
