The Guidance Department of Killian Elementary School sponsored "The International Day of Peace and Freedom" recently. The International Day of Peace and Freedom was proclaimed by the United Nations to mark the opening of the General Assembly in September of each year. At Killian, they amend this holiday with a commemorative celebration in memor y of those lives lost in I raq, Afghanistan, and terrorist attacks across the globe and to recognize the courage of our soldiers, sailors, and Marines who stand firm to protect the freedom we enjoy. Guest speaker was Command Sergeant Major Fedrico Dottin. Frank Gilbert III read the poem Freedom is not Free. 

The Killian Honors Chorus sang America, and Matthew Adams presented Mrs. Gene Parks with the annual "School Peacemaker" award: "At the end of the day, when the lights dim for the last time - there will be no front page story - there will be no ticker tape parade - no long list of awards - no talk of a fancy title or large salary ... In the distance, you will see those who really knew her - standing in silence - their faces aglow with peace - as they read her epitaph in unison 'She was a woman who loved all children unconditionally, she gently nestled their hearts in a place close to hers - until their wings were strong enough to take flight.'"