In 2011, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11, State Farm decided to create a touching tribute to thank the heroes of New York — and the result is both touching and surprisingly triumphant.
To bring the commercial to life, State Farm enlisted award-winning director Spike Lee. Lee gathered nearly 150 schoolchildren, ages 8-11, from the New York City area. As the kids break into an adorable rendition of Jay-Z and Alicia Keys' song "Empire State of Mind" as they march over the Brooklyn Bridge, their journey ends at four firehouses. Much to the firefighters' surprise and delight, the kids serenade and thank these men and women for their strength, courage, and selflessness. The ad ends with a powerful shot of the new 9/11 memorial and the words "Never forgotten. Forever grateful."
State Farm spokesman Roszell Gadson said that the ad was created as a "way to honor and show appreciation for the sacrifices made every day by firefighters and emergency responders" and the company wanted to "find a way to honor these brave men and women as we collectively mark the 9/11 anniversary." The insurance company is also selling this children's version of the song on iTunes for 99 cents, with proceeds going to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
We will never forget. Please SHARE this touching video with your friends on Facebook.
