The ceremony, which began at 9:30 a.m., included the Posting of the Colors by the Englewood Fire Department, the national anthem led by retired Navy veteran Carol Hilton, and prayers for unity and healing. 

Doug Izzo, executive director of the Englewood Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees and reminded them of the importance of reflection. “This ceremony is not only about remembering lives lost, but also about paying tribute to those who serve and sacrifice,” Izzo said. “Here in Englewood, we may be miles away from where those events took place, but we are forever connected by the spirit and unity that carried this nation through its darkest hours.”

Pastor Alex Christie of the Fellowship Church led the invocation, praying for unity in a divided nation and giving thanks for the courage of first responders and service members.

Deputy Chief Karl Bennett of the Englewood Fire Department delivered the keynote address. He recounted the timeline of September 11, honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost, including first responders who rushed into danger. “Their sacrifice didn’t end on 9/11,” Bennett said. “For months, they searched the wreckage, breathing dust and sorrow, driven by duty, love and hope. Hundreds more have since passed from illness caused by working in this toxic aftermath.”

Bennett also noted the continuing sacrifices of the military, with more than 7,000 service members killed in the war on terror. “We owe them more than thanks,” he said. “We owe them purpose, support and unyielding gratitude.”

Shannon Mesenburg of Operation Solid 7 read the names of Floridians who died that day, followed by the ringing of the bell, a fire service tradition signifying remembrance. The bell tolled five times: for the victims in New York City, the Pentagon, Flight 93, fallen first responders and military members, and as a pledge to never forget.

The ceremony closed with the playing of taps by Danny Fusion of VFW Post 10178. Bennett left attendees with a call to service. “You don’t have to wear a uniform to serve,” he said. “Service is found in mentoring a child, checking on a neighbor, supporting a veteran or volunteering in your community. Every act of service is a tribute to those who gave all.”

The post Englewood Honors 9/11 With Ceremony at Veterans Plaza appeared first on Englewood Review.