On Thursday, June 20th, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, along with several US Veterans, Eagle Scouts, Greater New York Scouts, Historic Richmond Town, NYC Parks, and ROTC Members representing local high schools, gathered at the Staten Island Zoo in celebration of Bald Eagle Day.
Since the proclamation that the bald eagle would become the United States’ national symbol on June 20, 1782, its power and grace has inspired Americans for generations. After nearly becoming extinct less than a century ago, the USDA has declared all rescued bald eagles in the United States as unreleasable. As such, the Staten Island Zoo stepped in to save many bald eagles and recounted the story of two of them, named Liberty and Indy, who were rescued after being injured in the wild. Together, the pair help to tell the story of the Endangered Species Act, the recovery of bald eagles, and many other animals.
The day began with the American Flag being raised by local high school ROTC members, followed by the zookeeper, Erin, discussing details of both Liberty’s and Indy’s day-to-day care. Tunnel to Towers Staten Island Ambassador, Jack Furnari, recited FDNY Firefighter Stephen Siller’s story to the students in attendance and described the Foundation’s efforts to Do Good. Lastly, Jessica Phillips, from Historic Richmond Town, showed her appreciation to the work that the Staten Island Zoo does and their celebration of Bald Eagle Day.Â
