Charlotte, N.C. Comes Together to Remember 9/11
On Wednesday, the heart of Charlotte will beat a little differently as the community pauses to honor the lives lost on that fateful day, September 11, 2001. Events across the greater Charlotte area will provide opportunities for reflection, remembrance, and community involvement.
Reflective Memorial at Romare Bearden Park
The Firefighter Steven Coakley Foundation invites everyone to gather for a reflective memorial at Romare Bearden Park starting at 8:30 AM. This event, titled “Flags of Remembrance”, will include a series of solemn moments marked by the tolling of a bell. Observing the times – 8:46, 9:03, 9:37, 9:59, 10:03, and 10:28 – will remind us of the events that unfolded and the lives that were forever changed. In a touching display, a steel beam from the World Trade Center will also be on view, allowing attendees to connect with history in a profound way.
This year, the honor of guest speaker goes to Rich Scola, a retired firefighter from FDNY. Rich served bravely at Engine 285 / Tower Ladder 142 from 1996 until 2006, and was on duty during 9/11. His experience during and after the disaster, including the harrowing months of rescue and recovery, adds a deeply personal touch to this memorial. Unfortunately, Rich retired due to medical injuries sustained from the toxic environment at Ground Zero. His story showcases the sacrifices made by firefighters and first responders during that devastating time.
The Flags of Remembrance will remain at Romare Bearden Park until 9 AM on Thursday, allowing community members to visit as they please. To learn more about the event and the foundation, please visit their website.
A Night to Honor First Responders
As a further show of appreciation, the Charlotte Knights will host First Responders Night during their game against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp on Wednesday. The game kicks off at 5:05 PM at Truist Field, promising to be a wonderful evening dedicated to those who serve our community. The team invites everyone to come out, enjoy the game, and show their gratitude towards our first responders!
Cornelius Remembers
In Cornelius, two ceremonies are set to take place at 9 AM at local fire stations. Station 1, located at 260 North Myrtle School Road, and Station 4 at 900 Armstrong Road will both have their own commemorative events. Additionally, the Cornelius Never Forget 9/11 Monument serves as a permanent tribute to first responders, military personnel, and citizens impacted on 9/11. Featuring a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, the monument stands in front of Cornelius-Lemley Fire Station #1, located at 19729 South Main Street, and is accessible 24 hours a day.
On September 11th, the Cornelius Fire Department will hold an event at Fire Station #1 at 8:30 AM. Organizers invite community members to arrive at 8:15 AM to stand in solidarity, celebrating the strength, resilience, and compassion that have emerged from the collective trauma of that day. It’s a beautiful way to reflect on not just the past, but the bonds that unite us all.
Join the Community
Charlotte and its surrounding areas are coming together this Wednesday for a meaningful day of remembrance. Whether you attend an event, reflect in your own way, or simply keep the memory alive in your heart, remember that we are all in this together. If you have an event you’d like to add or share, feel free to reach out and contribute to this collective act of remembering. Let’s honor those lost and cherish the strength of our community.
