The JROTC Color Guard team of the Stallion Battalion.
JROTC cadets sing the CNMI Anthem.
TINIAN — On Sept. 12, 2023 the Stallion Battalion participated in the 9/11 Field of Heroes ceremony at the Tinian Veterans Park.
The Stallion Battalion organized a Color Guard for the event with numerous cadets positioned in formation during the ceremony.
The ceremony started with the Presentation of Colors by the Color Guard team led by C/CSM Kelvin Shrestha, C/1LT Edgard Acollador, C/2LT Rchie Lagunay, and C/SFC Abiel Erickson.
The Field of Heroes ceremony is a day when we honor the first responders, victims, and the families of the victims affected by 9/11.
The ceremony began with the opening remarks and speeches by Mayor Edwin P. Aldan, Alex Sablan, and Chairman Joseph E. Santos.
During the ceremony, cadets were privileged to present wreaths at the venue.
C/PVT Letrisha and Dakota said: “We volunteered to present the wreaths to pay our respects to the fallen service members. We decided it would be a nice gesture and a way to show honor to those who have lost their lives 22 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001.”
The Field of Heroes ceremony holds an immense importance in modern history due to the far-reaching impact of 9/11.
The CNMI observes this day as a tribute not only to the fallen local military personnel, but also to all those who have lost their lives while striving to safeguard our well-being.
Many cadets also recognized the significance of this day. C/MAJ Jaedon Lenteja stated, “We come together as a community to commemorate and remember those who have gone before us on that very tragic day. This 9/11 memorial serves as a reminder to stay resilient no matter what comes our way.”
We also asked the cadets what their thoughts were on the battalion’s participation. “It was really nice seeing cadets in our battalion participating in such an important event. Seeing our battalion in this ceremony showed how much we honor our fallen heroes,” said C/2LT Rchie Lagunay.
Despite the sweltering heat, the cadets honored the ceremony with respect and reverence.
We wish to pay tribute to those who have made sacrifices for our nation, and express our gratitude to all first responders, law enforcers and military personnel.
The laying of the wreaths.
The JROTC cadets of the Stallion Battalion stand in formation.
