Seaford High School 9/11 Candle-Lighting Ceremony: In Photos

SEAFORD, NY — The annual 9/11 memorial ceremony and candle-lighting was held Wednesday for the entire Seaford community at Seaford High School.

The Seaford School District and Seaford 9/11 Memorial Committee hosted the evening ceremony, the district said in a news release. Hundreds from around the area attended to honor all who died in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, pay tribute to those who serve, and remember the five Seaford High School graduates who died that day: Thomas Haskell, class of 1982; Timothy Haskell, class of 1985; John Perry, class of 1982; Robert Sliwak, class of 1977; and Michael Wittenstein, class of 1985.

The ceremony was held at the 9/11 memorial site, which includes a piece of steel from the World Trade Center and plaques for the five graduates.

Patrick Ryder, commissioner of Nassau County police, gave a speech at the ceremony, as did Kenneth Haskell, Seaford High School graduate and 9/11 Memorial Committee president, and Kent Solheim, lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army.

Adele Pecora, superintendent of schools, said the ceremony was the "epitome of Seaford pride," in her opening remarks.

The ceremony also included a presentation of the flag by Nassau County Police Color Guard, escorted by the Nassau County Police Pipe and Drum Band, and a solo performance by Firefighter Jeremy Riddle, of FDNY Engine Company 332, during the candle-lighting.

The Seaford High School Honors Chorale closed out the evening with a rendition of "God Bless America."

Below is a photo roundup of the event, courtesy of the Seaford School District.