KENOSHA, Wis. — The City of Kenosha, Kenosha County and the Knights of Columbus Council 973 will host a community remembrance ceremony next month marking the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, at the Sesquicentennial Bandshell in Pennoyer Park, located at Seventh Avenue and 35th Street.
This year marks a quarter century since the terrorist attacks that killed 2,977 people and forever changed the nation. The Kenosha ceremony will honor those who died, recognize the courage and sacrifice of first responders and military personnel, and remember those who later died or continue to suffer from illnesses linked to the aftermath of the attacks.
“As we mark the 25th anniversary, we invite residents to come together in remembrance, gratitude and unity while honoring the lives lost and the heroes who answered the call to serve,” Kenosha Mayor David Bogdala said. Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman said the ceremony is also an opportunity to ensure younger generations understand the significance of Sept. 11.
“It is our shared promise to ‘Never Forget,'” Kerkman said. “It is our way of ensuring the next generation – too young to remember the day that transformed our nation – not only understands the loss, but also the bravery and unity that followed.” Local vocalist Greg Berg will emcee the ceremony, which will open with the Pledge of Allegiance and presentation of the colors. The Indian Trail High School and Academy choir, under the direction of John Choi, will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner,” followed by an opening prayer from the Kenosha Fire Department chaplain.
The ceremony will also feature remarks from retired Kenosha Fire Department Chief Christopher Bigley, who provided support at Ground Zero following the Sept. 11 attacks. A Kenosha Fire Department Bell Ceremony will be led by retired Assistant Chief Richard Bosanko, the Kenosha Area Pipes and Drums will perform “Amazing Grace,” the Kenosha Police Department Honor Guard will conduct a 21-gun salute, taps will be played, and the Kenosha Police Department chaplain will offer the closing prayer before the Armed Forces Color Guard retires the colors.
Following the ceremony, the Pritzker Military Museum will host an educational information tent featuring activities for children and families. The event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.
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