Elementary school campuses across Killeen ISD spent part of their Friday morning recognizing the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks with patriotic parades that symbolized strength and unity and expressed gratitude for those who serve and sacrifice for the nation.
At Maude Moore Wood Elementary School, students marched out of the front doors waving American flags, holding colorful banners and posters, wearing red, white and blue caps, and chanting “USA, USA, USA” as family members greeted them with cheers and then joined in for a walk around the campus.
Principal Rikki Harper said Friday was an opportunity to reflect and remember, as well as connect the significance of the day to the younger generation.
“We talked as a staff about how 9/11 means something different to us as adults, who experienced it at that time, versus the kids who don’t know,” said Harper, whose campus was recently named a 2026-2027 Purple Star Campus by the Texas Education Agency. “So, we just really wanted to focus on celebrating first responders and military members, and just really making it a day of honor.”
As the parade continued, songs such as “God Bless the USA” blared over the outdoor PA system with many students and family members singing along. Some of the younger students stopped and posed for pictures with a fire truck from Station 8 of the Killeen Fire Department, and a Killeen Police Department SUV.
Soldiers from Fort Hood’s 1st Cavalry Division Artillery unit passed out flags, held doors and interacted with students who were eager to share the moment with the men and women in uniform.
“We have a high active-duty military and military veteran population at our campus, so this is also an opportunity to recognize and honor them,” counselor Sarah Rice said. “They are an important part of our school community, and we want to make sure their service is acknowledged.”
The observances Friday culminated with the district’s 20th annual Freedom Walk at Harker Heights High School.
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