The Story Behind the Memorial

Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the LCJVS community came together with a shared vision: to create a lasting place of remembrance that would honor those who lost their lives and preserve the significance of that day for generations to come.

Led by LCJVS Supervisor and volunteer firefighter Charlie Warthling, the project united students, educators, skilled tradespeople, local businesses, and community volunteers. Together, they transformed a recovered piece of the World Trade Center into a memorial that reflects both the tragedy of September 11 and the strength of a community working together in remembrance.

The memorial was dedicated on September 22, 2012, during the LCJVS Community Appreciation Day, where students, families, first responders, and community members gathered to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Every Detail Has Meaning

The LCJVS Patriot Day Memorial was intentionally designed so that every element tells part of the September 11 story.

The World Trade Center steel beam is supported by two steel columns representing the Twin Towers and positioned at a 9.11-degree angle. The memorial rests on a pentagon-shaped platform honoring those who lost their lives at the Pentagon, while two walkways symbolize a nation coming together during a time of tragedy.

A boulder represents the field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, where United Flight 93 came to rest. Yellow flowers planted in the shape of a remembrance ribbon surround the memorial, and the black granite base bears a simple but powerful inscription:

"In memory of those lost on September 11, 2001."

Together, these elements create a memorial that encourages visitors to reflect not only on what happened that day, but also on the unity, courage, and hope that followed.