CLEVELAND — On Monday morning, the Cuyahoga County Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument was the site of a memorial service, to remember and honor the lives lost in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Inside, people gathered to mark the tragic moments when the hijacked planes crashed into the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The commemoration included the laying of wreaths and observing moments of silence.
There were also pictures and information displayed inside the monument about the lives lost from Northern Ohio in the tragedy.
Later in the morning, speakers including faith leaders and the Cuyahoga County Sheriff gathered to give remarks and reflections of the impact of that tragic day 22 years ago.
“Every one of us here has a friend, relative or neighbor that was directly impacted by 9/11,” said Cuyahoga County Sheriff Harold Pretel.
Also present was Major P.J. Sullivan of the United States Army Reserve, who encouraged those gathered to remember that the legacy left behind after that day is not just “pain and loss,” but also “strength, resiliency, and unity.”
“As we reflect on this day, we remember the sacrifices made by our brothers and sisters in arms, who answered the call after 9/11, but did not return home, and all those that we lost 22 years ago today,” he said. “We honor their memory by carrying their legacy forward, by cherishing the freedoms they fought for, and by striving to be the best versions of ourselves in their honor”