In light of the 24th anniversary of the tragic 9/11 attacks, Hagerstown Emergency Management and the City of Hagerstown organized to pay tribute to the countless first responders and civilians who lost their lives. On Tuesday evening, Sept. 9, dozens gathered at City Park in Hagerstown to witness military presentations and speeches.
Prayers were held by community figures, and American classics such as “America the Beautiful” were played by the Barbara Ingram School for the Arts wind band.
In addition to the speeches given by community figures, Hagerstown Mayor Bill Mcintyre and the Washington County commissioners office presented a proclamation, declaring Sept. 9, 2025, Patriot Day, in honor of the fallen first responders.
“Today and every day we remember the lives that were lost, honor the heroic actions of the first responders and thank them for their service and sacrifice,” said Mcintyre, presenting the proclamation
Among the presentations was a ceremonial placing of wreaths, on either side of the 9/11 memorial site located within the Emergency Services Tribute Garden at City Park. This memorial holds a large slab of steel, directly from the World Trade Center.
As EMS Captain Melanie Higgins read each name of fallen first responders from the surrounding area, the bell was rung in memoriam of each individual.
Readers may want to look for next year’s 25th anniversary memorial event and for more events like this at https://www.visithagerstown.com/events.
