The Town of Cicero honored the memories of thousands of victims during a somber commemoration of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The event, held on September 10 at the Community Center, recalled the day 14 years ago when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Flight 93 that crashed after a passenger revolt over Pennsylvania, saving the loss of more lives in Washington.
Cicero’s first responders spoke during the event, talking about their memories and reminding attendees of the tragic events that impacted the whole world. They spoke in front of American flags made of the victim’s names of the attacks and in between a video commemorating the tragedy. Students from Morton 201 were present for the event, many of them too young to remember the events.
“For me and many of the residents my age and younger September 11 is our Pearl Harbor,” said Town President Larry Dominick. “We must continue to educate our children of that day and not forget the tragic loss of life on that day and must always remain vigilant against those who wish to cause us harm. I cannot praise enough the work of our police and firefighters for their tireless efforts to keep us safe daily.”
Meanwhile, J. Sterling Morton School District 201 took time during the regular fanfare of Friday night football on September 11 to honor the victims of the 9/11 attacks and honor the police forces throughout the nation who work to keep Americans safe.
Prior to the game against Oak Park-River Forest, police officers from Cicero, Berwyn, Lyons, McCook, Forest View, Stickney, Lyons, as well as members of the Cook County Sheriff’s Department and Illinois State Police were recognized for their dedication to safety and security. They were led by the Chicago Police Department Pipes and Drums band and accompanied by presidents and mayors of their towns and cities.
After a moment of silence to remember those who sacrificed their lives on 9/11, as well as those who have died in the line of duty, Morton fans released balloons celebrating the lives of those gone.
“I’m incredibly proud of our student body for coming up with this moving event, especially since many of them were just small children when the attacks happened,” said Jeffry Pesek, Morton 201 School Board President. “I’m sure those police officers did not expect this when they came.”