Victims of 9/11 remembered at Warwick Academy ceremony
Warwick Academy held a memorial and wreath-laying ceremony for those lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, including an alumna, Rhondelle Tankard.
Close to 3,000 people perished in New York, Washington and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Ms Tankard, who attended Warwick Academy from 1982 to 1987, died in the South Tower of the World Trade Centre.
Dave Horan, the school principal, paid tribute during the ceremony at the school yesterday.
Mr Horan said Ms Tankard had just moved to the United States to work for Aon to advance her career.
“One can only imagine her excitement that day as she started a new job,” he said.
“She is fondly remembered by staff that still work here as a self-confident and enthusiastic young lady who made a significant contribution to the school.
“She had a wonderful sense of humour along with possessing good common sense.
“During her time at Warwick Academy, Rhondelle excelled in music and was a member of both the orchestra and choir. She completed the Royal School of Music exams in piano, theory and violin.
“As we lay the wreaths, they are a small token of our enduring respect and remembrance.
“It represents our commitment to never forget the events of that day and the loved ones lost.
“It signifies our determination to honour Rhondelle’s memory, the two other Bermudians, Saltus alumni Boyd Gatton and Robert Higley II, and all those lost that day.
“It is important to ensure that the values of freedom, unity and resilience they embodied continue to shine brightly.”
The Governor, Rena Lalgie, and US Consul-General Karen Grissette joined Warwick Academy’s head boy, Matthew Banner, and head girl, Sanaa Simmons, in laying wreaths at the ceremony, which was attended by Ms Tankard’s cousin Ra’ees Tankard.
A poem was also read by a student leader, Eva O’Connor, titled Peace or War. The poem is on display in the 9/11 museum at Ground Zero.
Mr Horan added: “As we lay wreaths at the front of the school, we are reminded that in a time of devastation and sadness, the United States stood resilient with an unbreakable spirit and unwavering unity.”
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