On the 25th anniversary of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, the students, staff, and community of Karen Wagner High School paid tribute to their namesake and American hero, Lt. Col. Karen J. Wagner. Wagner, a 1979 graduate of Judson High School, lost her life in the attack on the Pentagon.
Karen Wagner High School Principal Blas Arce opened the ceremony by thanking guests for attending and honoring the life and legacy of Lt. Col. Karen Wagner. He acknowledged that while the day holds solemn and difficult memories, it also reminds us of extraordinary heroism, including the story of Karen Wagner.
“The story of Lt. Col. Karen Wagner isn’t just etched into the history books, but built directly into the foundation of this school,” Arce said. “Every student, teacher, and staff member carries a piece of her legacy. We honor her best not just with our words today, but with our actions tomorrow: by pushing ourselves to grow, by supporting one another, and by leading with integrity in everything we do.”
Guest speaker Mayor Al Suarez of the City of Converse also spoke about the courage shown by so many on that day in 2001.
“Let us continue to honor Lt. Col. Karen J. Wagner, along with all the brave men, women, children, and fallen heroes of 9/11 for their courage, honor, and duty to the preservation of freedom,” Suarez said.
He also urged those who survived that tragic day to share the stories of September 11, 2001.
“Survivors have an obligation to build again, to teach others what we know, and to find goodness and meaning in this life. In doing so, terrorism will never prevail.”
As ROTC Instructor Lt. Col. John Baker called roll, there was silence when he called Lt. Col. Karen J. Wagner’s name. He then pronounced her, “Gone but not forgotten.”
As Taps sounded, the crowd remained silent, honoring the memory of not only Karen J. Wagner, but also the many heroes who sacrificed their lives for those of us who remain.