Remembering September 11, 2001 

Twenty-three years have passed since a sunny September Day in which four airline flights were hijacked with the intent of causing massive casualties. The occasion has been and will be marked in many ways across the area. 

This morning, Governor Glenn Youngkin laid a wreath at the Pentagon Group Burial Marker at the Arlington National Ceremony followed by another at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

On Saturday, both Albemarle County Fire Rescue and the Charlottesville Fire Department will hold a stair climb at the John Paul Jones Arena beginning at 8 a.m. 

Such events are held across the country to commemorate the 343 firefighters killed as they attempted to rescue people at the World Trade Center. Local personnel will climb the equivalent of 110 stories. 

Both fire chiefs are quoted in a press release sent out by Albemarle County. Albemarle Chief Dan Eggleston the event is a tribute to the courage and commitment. 

“By coming together as a community, we ensure their bravery, along with the memories of all who perished that day, are forever honored and never forgotten,” Eggleston said. 

Charlottesville Fire Chief Michael Thomas invited members of the community to join the event. 

“It’s a humbling experience to climb with fellow first responders and put ourselves in the shoes of those who risked their lives that day to preserve the lives of others,” Thomas said. 

On Tuesday, the Nelson County Board of Supervisors marked the events of September 11, 2001 with a proclamation for what they call Patriot’s Day that states why the country should continue to commemorate the tragedy. Supervisor Jessica Ligon 

“WHEREAS, this commemoration should be conducted each September throughout the land to include:
• The promotion of global peace and goodwill;

• The demonstration of America’s resolve and perseverance to win the war on terrorism;

• The advancement of responsible citizenship;

• The encouragement of patriotism and love of country; and

• The poignant remembrance of those innocent victims who died September 11th, as heroes, one and all.”

Supervisor Jesse Rutherford told the Board that American Legion Family of Post 17 will hold a commemoration at 3 p.m. at 22 Nelson Avenue in Shipman. 

Did you do anything to mark the occasion? What would you like to say? Leave a comment or drop me a line. 

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