At West Side Park, an American flag was raised to half-staff and “Amazing Grace” was played by two Champaign Fire Honor Guard members at a ceremony to commemorate the lives of first responders who were lost during the 9/11 attacks 24 years ago today.
Three Honor Guard members gave speeches that highlighted not only the sacrifice of the first responders, but also the unity that the country felt following 9/11. Champaign police officers and a few dozen area residents were in attendance.
Interim Fire Chief Tyler Funk said he wants to use this anniversary as a reminder of how united the country has been in the past.
“After that event, I think the nation came together, and was an example of what it could or should be,” he said. “So we want to remember that, not only to honor our firefighters, but also to honor that sacrifice and that spirit of unity that followed.”
Funk said as time continues to pass after 9/11, he is optimistic that the nation will find its way back together again.
“We’re an aging nation and also a very young nation at the same time,” he said. “I think that by holding these events, we try to spread the message to unify.”
Suzi Schneman was among those in attendance. She said her son is a Champaign firefighter, and he has given her a new appreciation for the bravery of first responders.
“It’s just become more and more obvious and and, you know, impactful for me, and I watch it much more closely,” she said. “I have a lot more respect for those guys who run into burning buildings and give their lives, give everything they’ve got to help somebody else.”
Champaign Fire Battalion Chief Brian Ball organized the memorial ceremony. He said that when 9/11 happened, many Champaign firefighters knew some of the first responders who died. He said that’s one of many reasons he organized this event.
“Why people attend this event can vary. They might remember the tragedy,” Ball added. “They might remember what came out of it in those months following, how we all unified together, but we’re all there to pay honor in respect to those who are lost that day.”
For Schneman, 9/11 serves as a reminder of those who have made sacrifices for the country.
“Don’t take our freedoms for granted. Don’t take our safety for granted,” she said. “Always be mindful and grateful for the people who give everything to sustain that.”
