The Summit Fire Department held a ceremony Thursday marking the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The service began at 9 a.m. at the firehouse on 59th Street with members of the Summit Fire Department, Summit Police Department, and McCook Fire Department, along with village officials and community members.
“Twenty-four years ago, on a clear September morning, our country was forever changed,” Summit Fire Chief Anthony Anderson said.
“The attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and United Flight 93 were not only assaults on our people and our nation, but on the very values we stand for — freedom, unity, and resilience,” he said.
Anderson said in the midst of chaos and destruction, there were heroes. “Today we gather to remember 343 firefighters, 60 police officers, 8 paramedics, and 3,000 lives lost on that tragic day.”
Anderson and Summit Police Chief Mel Ortiz laid a wreath at the flagpole to honor those who died.
Summit Mayor Sergio Rodriguez spoke, saying it is key to never forget what happened and thanked first responders for the work they do every day.
Anderson closed by thanking everyone who attended. “As we leave, let us be reminded of our shared duty. To never forget the sacrifice of September 11, and to live each day with courage, compassion and unity. We will never forget.”
