HONORING OUR VETERANS
The school district was very proud to unveil the addition of a new Alumni Veterans Monument, a student-led contribution spearheaded by ninth grader Jasim Khilji as part of his Eagle Scout service project.
The five-sided brick monument, located outside South Fayette High School, honors district alumni who have served or are currently serving in the U. S. Armed Forces. Atop the structure rests a 24-pound stone eagle on a Liberty Bell, symbolizing strength, sacrifice, and freedom. Each side of the monument bears one of the five military branch emblems, ensuring recognition for all who have answered the call to serve.
For Jasim, who comes from a family with deep respect for our country’ s military, the project was very personal.“ I wanted to create something lasting for the South Fayette community that shows our gratitude to alumni veterans,” Jasim said.“ This monument will stand as a reminder of their courage and service.”
Jasim led every aspect of the project from developing the design and presenting proposals, to writing letters, fundraising, and coordinating with professionals. He worked hands-on throughout the construction, often alongside his family, fellow Scouts, and community volunteers. Jasim’ s grandfather, Mr. Khalid Khilji, a Scout and civil engineer, served as his Scout Coach and Mentor on the project.
The project was made possible thanks to the generosity of local businesses, professionals, and community members including materials donations from Miller’ s Ace Hardware and the Bridgeville Home Depot as well as services and labor from the Pullman Company. Engineering and design expertise were provided by contacts with GAI Consultants, the Department of Defense, and GeoMechanics, Inc. The military emblems were contributed by Jasim’ s Scout Master Tom Taylor( Oakdale Troop 248) and his parents, Mr. Zirgham Khilji and Mrs. Nazish Habib, provided the stone eagle centerpiece. Many of Jasim’ s relatives, friends, and Scout brothers assisted with advice, labor, and food throughout the course of the project.
Jasim’ s mother, Mrs. Habib, who is a science teacher at the high school, has been overwhelmed by the outcome of the project.“ I am flabbergasted by the incredible kindness and generosity of our community,” she said.“ All of these people were role models and examples of pure love and kindness for my son. I think of this whenever I see the monument along with Jasim’ s perseverance and heart, and most of all, the sacrifice of our veterans. I may need to come to campus early every morning to sit on the bench and pray for everyone.” Mrs. Habib’ s sister and brother are both Army veterans, and her sister currently works for the Department of Defense.
Awaiting the addition of a $ 4,000 custom-engraved granite bench donated by Gaydos Monument Company, the Alumni Veterans Monument now stands in the heart of the South Fayette’ s student-centered campus as a permanent symbol of honor and respect that unites tradition, pride, excellence, community, and gratitude. outh Fayette SOUTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
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