HAGERSTOWN, Md. — Hagerstown’s annual Remembrance in the Park took place at 6 p.m. on Sept. 8, memorializing the tragic attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Organized by the city of Hagerstown and Washington County Emergency Management, dozens of spectators surrounded the pavilion on the northern end of City Park for a series of events to remember those who lost their lives.
Several members of the community were in attendance including Sheriff Brian Albert, Washington County Commissioners and Hagerstown’s Mayor Bill McIntire. The Wind Band from Barbara Ingram School for the Arts was also present, intermittently providing music for the event with songs like the “National Anthem” and “America the Beautiful.”
Alan Matheny, director of Emergency Management and Communications, opened the event with a speech reminding onlookers the reason for memorializing this day each year – the countless first responders and victims who lost their lives on Sept. 11th. Matheny encouraged the crowd to reflect on that day and ensure future generations do not forget what happened and those we lost.
Sheriff Brian Albert addressed the crowd, “As we gather here tonight, almost 25 years later, to honor those we lost, those who responded, those who serve and the families who continue to carry the burden of that day, we make this simple promise – we will remember.”
On each side of a memorial trade center beam, Lt. Dan Monn, Police Chief Paul Kifer and Commander Brian Kloos placed a set of wreaths in tribute to the fallen service members. Just after, Jimmy Sprecher, president of the Washington County volunteer fire company, rang the bell as names of service members in the area were read aloud.
To keep up with Hagerstown events, visit visithagerstown.com/events.
