TINIAN — In a solemn moment, on Sept. 13, 2024, over 50 cadets from the Tinian JROTC Stallion Battalion marched together and attended the Field of Heroes Memorial in reverence and respect for the victims, their families, and all who were affected by this national tragedy marked by the 9/11 attacks on September 11, 2001. This event has left an undeniable mark on history and the livelihood of those across the world, especially in the U.S. Today, we honor the lives of our fallen heroes, the American people affected who fell victim to such terror, and those who continue to serve their country in the wake of such horrific events.
Tinian High School’s Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets march during memorials to honor and show respect for military service members who have sacrificed their lives. This tradition allows our cadets to pay tribute to the fallen, reinforce a sense of discipline and patriotism, and demonstrate their commitment to civic duty and the virtues of the JROTC mission: “To motivate young people to be better citizens.”
JROTC participation in memorial events also helps connect students with broader national traditions of honoring service and sacrifice, promoting awareness of the significance of these ceremonies. This instills in our future generations the need to honor those who have fallen, ensuring that the memory of those lost remains present in the minds of our community and the generations that will lead us into the future.
In our community, on Tinian specifically, this memorial is a longstanding tradition that honors the members of the army, firefighters, those on the frontlines, and those who have sacrificed themselves and their lives for others. It was a day to mourn, to remember, but more importantly, to celebrate those whose names we will never forget. 2,997 victims were honored, over 1,000 fallen heroes were celebrated, and even more of those who signed up to serve their country joined us in the memorial service, including many who enlisted in the aftermath of the attacks, were celebrated for their unwavering commitment to protecting our nation. The military family that serves and protects our country stationed on Tinian came down to honor our fallen heroes as well during the memorial including Ensign Jack Biersmith, who spoke about his commitment to serving and what it means to serve. The event was not just a tribute to the past but a testament to the enduring spirit of service in our country, and our community that the attacks inspired. Our Tinian community and the Tinian Stallion Battalion remember not only the tragedy but the incredible courage, resilience, and selflessness that emerged from it.
This memorial offered the Stallion Battalion and Tinian High School students a chance to reflect on the significance of 9/11 and also instilled in them a deeper understanding of service, sacrifice, and community. Our cadets, marching in unison, embody the respect and honor that the memory of these heroes deserves. Through their participation, the cadets joined countless others in keeping the memory of 9/11 alive, ensuring that the stories of bravery and selflessness continue to inspire.
As the ceremony came to a close, the Stallion Battalion stood tall alongside our army instructors, retired Captain Joseph A. Santos, and retired 1st Sergeant Jose, T. King.
Our hearts are filled with pride, respect, and duty to honor the victims of the 9/11 tragedy, and in this moment that surely isn’t the last, our fallen heroes. The Field of Heroes Memorial served as a powerful reminder of the strength and unity that can emerge from tragedy.
For the Tinian JROTC Stallion Battalion, this day was not just about looking back on history, but also about carrying forward the legacy of those who fought for freedom.
Stallion Battalion cadets march to the Field of Heroes Memorial, commanded by HQ Commander C/2LT Matthew Sarmiento.
Stallion Battalion cadets march to the Field of Heroes Memorial, commanded by HQ Commander C/2LT Matthew Sarmiento, and followed by Army Instructor retired 1st Sergeant Jose T. King.
Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan holds up Field of Heroes Memorial wreath alongside Ensign Jack Biersmith, Tinian 19th Municipal Council Secretary Estevan Cabrera, Tinian San Jose Church’s Rev. Father Brigido Bagunas, C/PFC Israt Syed, Mayor Aldan’s wife, Rosita King-Aldan, Tinian 19th Municipal Council Chair Joseph Santos, Joseph, C/PV2 Ken Litulumar, and representatives of the Tinian Mayor’s office.
