Willowbrook School Raises Flag For Patriot Day Celebration

GLENVIEW, IL — Willowbrook School’s first flag raising since early 2020 was held on Sept. 10 to honor Patriot Day, first responders and students. Two Glenview police officers raised the school flag with Willowbrook’s custodian, Pablo Astudillo, according to a news release. Students stood 10 feet apart in two rows as attendees recited “The Pledge of Allegiance.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian K. Wegley and Director of Student Services Lauren Schulman were also present and greeted guests, students, and staff members.

Principal Dr. Scott Carlson began the assembly welcoming special guests: Glenview Police Department representatives Sergeant Joel Detloff and Sergeant Mark Ciesla, and from the Glenview Fire Department: Patrick McNamara, Andrew Hogan, Andrew Lund, Dan Tavala, and Brian Kirschbaum. He sincerely thanked them for their presence and the constant support of the community, according to the news release.

Next, Dr. Carlson reminded the students that Patriot Day is also called The National Day of Service and Remembrance. A patriot is someone who defends their country against enemies; someone who feels strong support for their country; and someone who spends their life serving their country (like a police officer, fireman/woman, soldier, or paramedic).
“We are remembering President George W. Bush and President Barak Obama named this day a national holiday to remember something that happened twenty years ago tomorrow (9/11) in New York City," Carlson said. "A small group of men tried to hurt America. Our patriots came to the rescue and helped those in need. Americans were frightened, but everyone took care of each other that day.”

“We remember the people hurt on September 11 and the bravery of all the patriots who helped that day. This is also a day to be proud of our country, our people, and our community. In honor of Patriot Day, thank your police officers, firemen/women, or soldiers. Write a letter, wave at them, or shake their hand. Be a patriot. Follow the pillars of good character: Trustworthiness, fairness, respect, responsibility, caring, and citizenship,” he added.

Music teacher Kurt Barker concluded the assembly by accompanying everyone on the keyboard to "My Country ’Tis of Thee."