Community Corner

September 11: Honoring Those Lost, 12 Years Later

Local ways to stand united against the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil.

by Karen Goff

Twelve years ago today, Americans' lives were changed forever when terrorists hijacked four planes and attacked the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

Nearly 3,000 people died as a result of the attacks, and Americans' lives have been forever changed.

We have vowed to never forget and to stand united. Here are some ways to do that in Northern Virginia on Wednesday.

* Fairfax County invites all to observe a moment of silence 8:46 a.m. - the same time the first plane was flown into the World Trade Center. The county is also encouraging all to display flags at half-staff as well. 

County residents and visitors are also invited to Memorial Grove, located on the Government Center grounds at 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax, as “a space where you may want to take a moment and reflect,” the county said in a statement.

People can also visit USA.gov to learn more about memorials in New York City, Washington D.C., and Shanksville, Pa. The county also invited all to “take steps during National Preparedness Month to build — or re-supply — your emergency supply kitmake a plan for your family and business, and commit to stay informed.”

Garfield Elementary School in Springfield will hold its annual 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony in the school’s front parking lot, by the flag pole. At this simple ceremony, the school will raise the American flag and the Freedom Flag, a visual representation of the events of 9/11 and reminder of the freedom we affirm on Patriots Day. The ceremony will include the school's usual moment of silence. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 9:25 am. 

* The City of Alexandria invites the public to a 10 a.m. remembrance ceremony.  The event will take place in Market Square at 301 King St. The purpose of the commemoration is to give thanks and pay tribute to those who responded on 9-11 without fear, acted without hesitation and gave their lives to save others. The ceremony will feature remarks from Alexandria Mayor Bill Euille, Alexandria Sheriff Dana Lawhorne, Police Chief Earl Cook and Fire Chief Adam Thiel.

* Arlington County's top fire and law enforcement officials will participate in a moment of silence as part of a commemoration of the 9/11 attack at the Pentagon.

The public is invited to join them for the ceremony, which starts at 9:30 a.m.  in the Courthouse Plaza at 2100 Clarendon Blvd.

More info here.

Liberty Memorial Ceremony — Prince William County will officially present the new World Trade Center Monument at the county complex. The monument includes structural beams from the trade center. 7 p.m. Wednesday at 1 County Complex Court. Woodbridge.

The Town of Leesburg has planned a remembrance event for the 12th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States. The event begins at 7 p.m. on the Town Green, 25 West Market Street.

Town officials are encouraging residents to volunteer, donate time or goods or simply offer a helping hand on the National Day of Service and Remembrance.

In addition to the remembrance, the Town’s Freedom Memorial at Freedom Park, 101 Granada Circle off Tolbert Lane, will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Are there any memorial events we missed? Tell us about them in the comments.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here