On September 11, 2001, the world witnessed an unimaginable tragedy that would leave a permanent scar on the United States. Among the 184 victims aboard American Airlines Flight 77—which crashed into the Pentagon—were three bright sixth-grade students: Bernard C. Brown II, Asia S. Cottom, and Rodney Dickens.
These students were on a once-in-a-lifetime educational trip organized by National Geographic. What was meant to be a day of discovery and learning turned into a moment of heartbreaking loss.
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What Happened on Flight 77?
Flight 77 was hijacked mid-air by terrorists and directed into the Pentagon. Onboard were civilians, military personnel, and the students with their teachers. Tragically, all lives were lost in the attack.
Bernard, Asia, and Rodney were traveling to California as part of a National Geographic Society-sponsored trip for outstanding students. They were accompanied by their devoted teachers—Sara Clark, Hilda Taylor, and James Debeuneure—and National Geographic staff Judith Reis and Joe Ferguson.
Meet the Students: Bernard, Asia, and Rodney
These three young scholars embodied hope, intelligence, and compassion.
- Bernard C. Brown II, 11, was known for his quick wit, love for basketball, and bright personality that lit up every room. Teachers described him as sharp and inquisitive—a student who made them stay on their toes. His father worked at the Pentagon, making the loss even more painful for the family.
- Asia S. Cottom, also 11, was remembered for her kindness, love of school, and affection for animals—especially tweety birds. A top-performing student, she was known for helping classmates and always smiling through challenges.
- Rodney Dickens, 11, enjoyed reading, computer games, and professional wrestling. He was a thoughtful brother and friend who deeply loved his family.
All three were selected for the trip as a reward for academic excellence and leadership, a testament to their potential and dedication.
A Trip Meant for Learning Turned to Tragedy
The educational journey was designed to inspire young minds with real-world experiences beyond the classroom. Sponsored by National Geographic, the trip symbolized dreams, opportunity, and ambition. No one could have imagined that this moment of promise would become one of the darkest chapters in American history.
National Mourning and Community Response
The deaths of Bernard, Asia, and Rodney touched people across the nation. Their loss served as a gut-wrenching reminder of the innocent lives taken on 9/11. Schools and communities across the country held memorials and candlelight vigils in their honor.
In the years that followed, their names became symbols of youthful promise lost too soon. Stories of their lives have been shared in classrooms, churches, and family gatherings, helping preserve their memory for future generations.
Social Media Tributes and Memorials
Even decades later, tributes continue to pour in on social media and 9/11 memorial platforms. People share their thoughts, memories, and prayers using photos, artwork, and personal stories. The children are remembered not only for how they died—but for the light they brought into the world during their short lives.
Honoring Their Legacy: “We Will Never Forget”
Each year on September 11, the families of Bernard, Asia, and Rodney—alongside their teachers’ families and National Geographic staff—gather to reflect on the lives lost. Schools often dedicate moments of silence, and communities host remembrance events to honor their legacy.
Their tragic deaths remind us of the importance of cherishing every moment, and their memory continues to inspire acts of kindness, education, and unity.
Conclusion: Remembering the Children of Flight 77
Though their time on earth was far too brief, Bernard C. Brown II, Asia S. Cottom, and Rodney Dickens continue to live on through the stories, memories, and love of those who knew them—and even those who didn’t.
As we remember these bright sixth graders, we recommit to the promise:
We will never forget.