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SABBATUS – Oak Hill Middle School seventh and eighth-graders rolled up their sleeves on Friday, Sept. 10, to wash the vehicle of any first responder or veteran who drove into the bus circle.
The free event was organized by the school’s Social Studies teachers in an effort to teach kids about the events of 9/11, as well as to recognize and honor the first responders who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks. By offering a free car wash to local police, firefighters, EMT’s and veterans, OHMS students had a tangible way to give back to their community and say thank you.
Throughout the day, cruisers from Sabattus and Lewiston showed up, as well as fire trucks from Sabattus, a Wales EMT vehicle and a huge critical incident tactical vehicle from Lewiston. In addition, veteran mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles, peperes and papas showed up to support their young ones’ event and get a free car wash.
With donations from Dunkin’ Donuts and eighth grade mother Jen Smith, three were doughnuts, coffee, cupcakes and cookies galore to offer first responders and veterans.
Fifth and sixth grade students participated by making posters and cards for the guests. Each first responder or veteran was given a hand-written card of thanks for their service.
Sabattus Chief of Police Daniel Davies spoke to the students about his recollections from being at Ground Zero a week after the terrorist attacks, when the rubble was still smoldering and bodies were still being removed. On a day that cleared up to mirror the bright sun and bluebird sky of 9/11, 20 years ago, the students stood in silence as they listened to his stories.
Another mother, Sabrina Beganny. arrived for a car wash with her service dog, Louie, and took the time to introduce him to the students and explain the program she volunteers for, Maine Paws for Veterans.
Many of the veterans offered donations for the student’s time and effort, which were, in turn, donated to Beganny, who also represents Healing Waters, a fly-fishing instruction group devoted to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of wounded veterans or those with PTSD.
“All told, it was a beautiful day for a car wash, and a wonderful teaching opportunity for the middle schoolers at Oak Hill,” said Aimee N. Lanteigne, an Oak Hill teacher and organizers of the event. “We are so grateful to be back in school, as this was a unique learning experience that simply could not have been accomplished via remote learning. Thank you to all those who came out to support our students in this great event, and for helping the teachers provide a real world lesson that, we hope, our kids will never forget.”
(Aimee N. Lanteigne photos)
