“Community members, veterans and local officials gathered at American Legion Post 927 to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, honoring those who lost their lives while reflecting on the tragedy’s lasting impact on the nation.

Today is a little more significant as it’s the 25th anniversary of 9/11. We remember where we were that fateful day. Our loved ones and community were affected. We lost members affected by the tragedy. Today is about remembering.” noted American Legion Post 927 Commander Everett Shaver at a remembrance service Friday.

The service brought together veterans, community members and local officials to honor those who lost their lives and reflect on the impact the tragedy had on families, communities and the nation.

Chaplain Eileen McGuire reminded the crowd to “Never let us forget 25 years ago we lost thousands of innocent lives. The memories will always be etched forever in our lives.”

Guest speaker State Sen. Rosemary Brown, R-Monroe, questioned the evil ideology that led to the attacks while emphasizing the importance of unity. She said the anniversary provides an opportunity for the country to come together “as a nation, as a family.”

Brown then read the names of Monroe County residents who perished on Sept. 11, sharing information about each individual as those gathered reflected on their lives and legacies.

Legion member and Legion Rider Hector Ramirez spoke about the spirit of unity that emerged in the days following the attacks. He recalled finally returning home to his wife in New York, where the two simply held each other in silence.

At the same time, he remembered watching television coverage that showed long lines of people waiting to donate blood and medical professionals standing ready to help.

“It was like Mayberry U.S.A. as people came together holding doors for one another and being polite,” Ramirez said.

He noted that over the years the nation became fractured, but he continues working to strengthen connections within his community.

“I do what I can to bring the nation and community together,” he said, a message that resonated deeply with those in attendance.

Following the speakers, attendees gathered to watch the honor guard perform a rifle volley, firing three shots in tribute to the fallen. Chaplain McGuire then played taps to conclude the ceremony.

As the ceremony ended, a sense of closeness and community lingered among those gathered, along with a renewed feeling of strength, remembrance and hope for the nation.