Published September 16, 2025

John Hersey High School recently hosted the Portrait of a Soldier art exhibit, a traveling memorial honoring all Post-9/11 fallen servicemembers from Illinois. Displayed in the Titre Room, the powerful collection featured hand-drawn portraits of every Illinois servicemember who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Global War on Terror.

Throughout the school day, Hersey students toured the exhibit and reflected on the meaning of service, sacrifice, and community. As part of the school’s Patriot Day observance, students also prepared Patriot Day Pledges to honor September 11 as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. These pledges included simple but meaningful commitments—such as helping neighbors, reaching out to grandparents, or practicing kindness—that together emphasize the importance of building stronger communities.

“A big part of what we’re trying to do is let students know that 9/11 is Patriot Day, a National Day of Service,” said John Hersey High School English Teacher Jim Miks. “One of the best things they can do to remember 9/11 and honor any of the fallen or first responders is to be good neighbors. Your community is your country, and your neighborhood is the best place to start being a good citizen.”

In addition to student tours, the exhibit was opened to the public in the evening, providing community members the opportunity to experience the moving display and pay tribute to Illinois’ fallen heroes.

The Portrait of a Soldier exhibit continues to serve as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of servicemembers, while inspiring students and the community to carry forward the spirit of service.