Rock Island Arsenal remembers September 11 attacks 25 years later

Ceremonies around the nation, including at the Rock Island Arsenal, were held to remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001, 25 years later. Stories recalling tails of heroes have been passed down through that time, reminding people of the thousands who lost their lives that day, including the hundreds of first responders. For many, documentaries of people like Welles Crowther (also known as the man in the red bandana) bring out emotions - grief, but also inspiration.

"The shock, loss and courage on that day echoed across our nation for every generation that has grown up in the shadow of September 11, 2001," said Major General Eric Shirley, commander of the US Army Sustainment Command.

Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives in the terrorist attacks that day. At least 441 of those deaths were first responders.

"Those moments of heroism and the sacrifices that make sense, we remember," said Shirley.

Remembrance ceremonies like the one at the Rock Island Arsenal play a key part in never forgetting those who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the attacks and in the fallout after.

"Those families are changed forever," said Shirley.

It also gives many the moment to honor those who risk their lives every day.

"Police officers, firefighters, EMTs and others who risks their lives every day to keep our community safe," said Shirley. "Their courage reflects the same spirit of service we hold dear in the military. Public service, whether military or civilian, is a noble calling. We saw that clearly on 9/11, we see it today."

During his remarks at the ceremony, Shirley urged the crowd to not let the younger generations forget the sacrifice and heroism many showed that day.

"Many of our younger service members don't have a living memory of 9/11. Many were born after it. Time moves forward. We believe that we serve as an example to those that follow," said Shirley. "Our service will become history that others learn from."

The young choir from the All-Saints Catholic School in Davenport learned that today. They sang patriotic songs before the ceremony and stayed for the rest of the ceremony. Involving the youth in the remembrance events encourages education of that day.

"May we never forget those who died on 9/11," said Shirley. "And those who have given the ultimate sacrifice since."

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