Ten years after the moment that changed our world, communities across the nation came together to remember the heroes who fell that day, along with the people who are still dealing with the effects of that tragic day now.
“9-11 changed our lives,” said Jan Masi, a community member. “All of us will remember where we were that day. It changed what we do on a daily basis. It changed our world. It’s important that we are all here to remember it. I think it’s important to move forward, but should never forget.”
The RUHS Band played at the Civic Center Circle for a crowd of about 300 community members, including veterans, firefighters, police officers, airline employees, members of the city council, a state senator and Mayor Mike Gin.
The Veterans Memorial Task Force presented a bronze plaque of remembrance to Mayor Gin, and Captain Eric Baker read a letter from long-timeRedondo Beachhonorary resident and NY Firefighter, Bobby Senn.
In the letter, Bobby Senn reminded the community that “the American spirit lives on. Each of us has the capacity to do something better in our community.”
Even after ten years, Senn explained, first responders are still dealing with the aftermath of that day. Men and women are still dying from health problems associated with the toxic smoke, dust and gas following the collapse of the twin towers.
Council member and American Airlines employee Bill Brand reminded the crowd of the heroes in the sky.
“In 25 minutes the people on Flight 93 came together and did what they needed to get done.” Brand said.
Whether the heroes were in the sky or on the ground, on Sept. 11, 2011 people came together at the city plaza to honor our country’s tenacity and the people that weave the treads of our history to the possibilities of our future.
“I think it’s important to remember how the best in our community blossomed” said Gin. “In the midst of the tragedy, we saw compassion and the community come together.”
Nia Vidal, RUHS Associated Student Body President, spoke of her father’s rescheduled Boston business trip, and the realizations about security a 6-year-old girl had to grow up to learn.
“I am proud to be part of this country,” said Vidal, “proud to put my hand over my heart. Proud to be an American.”
