Members of the Des Plaines Fire and Police Departments, American Legion Post #36, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2992 hosted a 9/11 Memorial Dedication and “Patriot Day” Ceremony, 8 AM, Sunday, September 11, 2011, outside the Des Plaines Civic Center, between the City Hall Building and Police Department, 1420 Miner Street.
This memorial ceremony, attended by roughly 500 people, commemorated the 10 year anniversary of the terrorist attacks, and featured the unveiling of a 9/11 memorial, highlighted by a 114-pound beam that was salvaged from the remnants of the World Trade Center (WTC).
Nearly everyone sported red, white and blue attire as some clutched American flags during the near 45-minute tribute, where keynote speaker and U.S. Navy Cmdr. Lee Donaldson encouraged the crowd to thank those who serve the country.
“Don’t let Sept. 11 be a day of mourning,” said Donaldson, as he highlighted the unity and pride the country saw after the event. “If we do that, the terrorists have won.”
Master of Ceremonies, Deputy Chief Ron Eilken said, “Our city feels that it is extremely important to continue the tradition of preserving the events and memories of this day and to pay homage to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.”
You may view a photo gallery of this year’s memorial event here.
