September 11^th, 2001: a day that will go down in United States history as one of intense devastation. On this day in 2001, four American planes were hijacked by terrorists. Two planes collided with the twin towers of the World Trade Center, and one with the Pentagon building located just outside of Washington DC. The final plane, believed to be heading towards the Capitol Building or White House, crashed in a field in southeastern Pennsylvania.

The devastation was unspeakable. Nearly 3,000 individuals lost their lives that day, and several sustained serious injuries. Not only were those who went to work affected, but also those who went to rescue. Several first responders left the crash sites having sustained serious injuries or health issues, and some did not even leave the crash sites at all.

Every year, the United States, among other countries, honors those fallen in this event. Flags are flown at half-mast, and many monuments have been constructed in memoriam.

This year, Dekalb High School took initiative in honoring those that were affected by the events on 9/11. At their homecoming football game on Friday, they took time to honor local veterans and law enforcement. Furthermore, their homecoming t-shirts were a true representation of the togetherness that patriotism provides.

The “United We Stand” t-shirts were available to both Dekalb and East Noble students. The shirts featured a goal post with an American flag across it. While the t-shirts were fun for both high schools, it bridged the gap between school rivalries. Dekalb and East Noble students were united under a common cause, and were able to come together in honor of those lost on 9/11.