Schools around the area took time to remember the events of Sept. 11, 2001 on Friday — while trying to explain its meaning to children, many of whom were born after the terrorist attacks.

Brown Elementary School had a patriotic rally to begin their school day on Friday, and then welcomed speakers from the Merced County Sheriff’s Department, Turlock Fire Marshall, Oakdale Police Department and U.S. Army.

Principal Jeff Persons urged the children and adults in attendance to “never forget” what happened that September morning.

The guest speakers talked about the role emergency personnel played in the rescue efforts after the attacks and encouraged the kids to consider a career in public service when they got older.