Parkland's "Homecoming Heroes" Gives September 11 New Meaning

On Friday, Oct. 21, in its annual homecoming game. This game will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the year, not only because it is homecoming, but more importantly because of the night's overarching theme, a tribute to the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. 

The theme, dubbed "Homecoming Heroes" by the school's student council, will be represented in a multitude of ways. Student council will collect shorts for soldiers throughout the week at the high school, as well as at events such as Garter Bowl (Wednesday, Oct. 19) and the Friday night football game.

The shorts will benefit members of the armed forces who need comfortable clothes to wear when they are not on duty. The half-time show will feature many high school clubs' take on the "Homecoming Heroes" theme, with floats donning super heroes, firefighters, army veterans, and many more.

This year's homecoming will reach the Parkland community ways it never has before.

Parents and teachers will remember the events of the 9/11 attacks as if they occurred yesterday, but how will it affect students? For us, September 11 has been remembered as a mere video clip or news article, an event that can only be felt vicariously because of the minute understanding we had as young children. We are expected to feel uneasiness and despair at the mention of the attacks, but homecoming will bring the tragedy to a new light. By honoring the heroes of that day, 9/11 will be remembered as a symbol of our country's bravery and unyielding patriotism and the crowds will swell with reverie rather than sorrow. 

Join Parkland High School this Friday for a great night of football, but more importantly a tribute to the proof of our country's unity in trying times. Join us as we celebrate with pride the true meaning of September 11, 2001.