NU Online News Service, Sept. 12, 1:54 p.m. EDT
To send a "thank you" to the heroes of Sept. 11, 2001 and donate funds to fallen firefighters, State Farm teamed with director Spike Lee to film a moving tribute.
The video, which can be seen here, was done as a "way to honor and show appreciation for the sacrifices made every day by firefighters and emergency responders," says State Farm spokesman Roszell Gadson. He says the company wanted to "find a way to honor these brave men and women as we collectively mark the 9/11 anniversary."
The video, directed by Lee, features students singing "Empire State of Mind" in front of different fire houses in New York City, including Engine 5, which lost 11 men on Sept. 11.
"Veteran director Spike Lee has a deep love for New York City and genuine respect for the good work and sacrifices of the city's first responders," Gadson says. "State Farm knew his documentary style and personal gratitude would yield a heartfelt and powerful remembrance and thank you."
The insurer's YouTube page includes extras with the children and firemen, who share their thoughts about the city and the attack on the World Trade Center a decade ago.
The students' performance is available for download for 99 cents. Proceeds will benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. State Farm has a long-standing partnership with NFFF, adds Gadson. The company has donated $2 million to the NFFF since Sept. 11.
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