CHARLOTTE — In Uptown, Charlotte is remembering the 9/11 terrorist attacks 25 years later.
Two massive pillars of light shine up from Romare Bearden Park, representing the Twin Towers. Below lies a sea of American flags, honoring each of the 2,977 people lost that day.
The attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City changed everything. It also put a spotlight on first responders and their selfless efforts to save lives. For many of them, the images and emotions of that morning have never left, but neither has the sense of duty that followed.
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In a statement, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein reflected on the 25th anniversary of the attacks:
“On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we remember the nearly 3,000 innocent lives who were killed that day, hundreds of first responders who died because of their heroic efforts, and countless others whose lives were forever changed. Just as much as the horrific images from that day are seared in our minds, so are the heroes who responded.
“This year, during America’s 250th year, we cherish what it means to be an American: to love freedom, justice, security, democracy, and peace. Let us honor the memories of our heroes: the brave passengers of Flight 93, the firefighters who rushed toward danger as people ran for their lives, and the neighbors who helped their neighbors through unthinkable tragedy. And let us remember that there is more that unites than divides us. America is strongest when we stand together.”
Charlotte residents are expected to gather at the memorial Friday to pay their respects and honor the countless sacrifices made 25 years ago.
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Events commemorate 9/11 across the area
In addition to the memorial in Uptown, there are events all across the area.
In Waxhaw, the Patriot Day ceremony starts at 8 a.m. at the Military Wall of Honor. Cornelius Fire Department will host a time for reflection at Fire Station 1, and the Billy Graham Library will host a prayer breakfast at 8 a.m. with ceremonies throughout the day.
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On Saturday, the community will climb 110 stories in honor of the first responders who ran up the stairs of the Twin Towers as thousands of others were trying to get out. Each participant will carry the name of a fallen firefighter.
The Charlotte 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb will take place at the Bank of America Corporate Center. The opening ceremony begins at 8 Saturday morning, with the climb starting at 8:45.
Online registration for the climb has closed, but interested participants can register on site tomorrow at 7 a.m.