To mark 24 years since the deadly terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, Colonie Central High School hosted the annual Blue Star Mothers 9/11 remembrance ceremony.

The ceremony included first responders, local leaders, students and members of the school community. Together, they remembered the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the attacks and to honored the sacrifices made in the years that followed.

“Our students have grown up in a post-9/11 world, but events like this help them understand the depth of the loss and the importance of service,” said Associate Principal Tess McCarthy. 

Blue Star Mothers is an organization of mothers with children who serve or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. They host this event each year on Sept. 11 on the high school’s Hill of Heroes.

The Hill of Heroes was established in 2016 as a meaningful tribute to military personnel and first responders. Since its installation, current students and staff have maintained and expanded the hill, and added commemorative pavers, to continue to memorialize and celebrate individuals who have made a lasting impact on the community. To learn more about the Hill of Heroes, click here.