KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Tuesday, the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office announced plans for the 9/11 remembrance ceremony that will take place this weekend.
This Saturday marks the 20-year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks that occurred in New York City, Washington, D.C., and the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
The commemorative service will take place starting at 11:00 a.m. in downtown Kalamazoo’s Bronson Park.
“Two decades have passed since that unimaginable day that forever changed not only our country, but the entire world,” officials said in a statement. “We gather as a community because the attacks of that day impacted all of us, every citizen in every community throughout this land. We gather because of our solemn promise to never forget.”
Nearly 3,000 lives were lost on September 11, 2001, which also marked the deadliest day for firefighters with 343 lost.
“With heads bowed, we will prayerfully remember those who died, and with grateful hearts we will stand tall and salute those who protect, defend and care for our country and communities every day,” officials added. “We will wave the Stars and Stripes to declare, not only our allegiance to this land, but our commitment to strive for equity, equality and justice for all.”
Special guests will include WWMT TV News Anchor Andy Dominianni, who will act as emcee for the program, while retired Kalamazoo County Sheriff Thomas N. Edmonds will be the featured speaker.
The invocation will be led by Rev. Jeff Wenke of The Bridge Church in Portage.
Music will be provided by Grace Kalafut, Johnny Buiskool, Lt. Keaton Nielsen and Scott Thornburg.
Several local firefighter units, as well as members of both the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) and the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office, will perform ceremonial duties.
Dr. Addis Moore, Pastor Mt. Zion Baptist Church, will offer closing comments prior to the benediction by Rev. Eliza Cortes Bast, Supervisor for Strategic Ministry Initiatives and Local Missional Engagement.
Seating will be provided.
Bronson Park is located at 200 South Rose Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007.
