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September 11, 2026

25 Years Later: Washington High JROTC Cadets Gather to Remember September 11

Three Washington High School JROTC cadets stand at attention with flags in front of arranged group of fellow cadets on a foggy football field.

A thick fog blanketed the football field at Washington High School, softening the morning light and shrouding hundreds of Air Force JROTC cadets standing silently in formation. On this quiet September morning, they had gathered for a solemn ceremony to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks and honor the lives forever changed by one of the darkest days in American history.

On Friday, September 11, 2026, the event began with a ceremonial inspection of the cadets by Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools district leadership. Rows of uniformed students stood at attention as the inspection took place.

Then came the moment that brought the events of 25 years ago into sharper focus. A student cadet stepped forward to recount the tragedy of September 11, 2001. The cadet walked the audience through the events of that fateful morning, describing the attacks, the devastation, the lives lost, and the profound impact that continues to echo across generations.

For the cadets who were born years after the attacks, the story offered a connection to a defining moment in American history that is known largely through the memories of others. Surrounded by fog and silence, the formation of young cadets became more than a military ceremony. It became a living reminder that remembrance is not simply about looking back. 

It is about ensuring that the stories, sacrifices, and lessons of September 11 are carried forward by the generation that follows.

Following the ceremony, a member of the class of 1968 at Washington High School was honored. Lance Corporal Bedford who served in the military during the Viet Nam war was recognized with his name placed on a plaque that honors soldiers of war.

“Part of our corp of cadets is to walk in the footsteps of those who have gone before us. And these folks walked these halls of Washington High School,” said Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) USAF Patrick McCormack.

The rest of the day was dedicated to a day of service. Cadets performed acts of service for veterans in the KCK community. 

A photo gallery is available to view the ceremony.