Community gathers to remember the victims of 9/11

The annual remembrance ceremony at Columbus City Hall to remember those who died during the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 has always been reverent.

But for many of the 140 people who attended Monday morning, the observance was exceptionally important and meaningful 16 years after it happened.

Although chairs were set up, every emergency worker, government employee, child and others who attended remained standing outside throughout the 20-minute ceremony.

It was an unspoken, but heartfelt tribute for those in Florida saving lives after Hurricane Irma struck Sunday, as well as those who did the same in Texas late last month following Hurricane Harvey, Columbus Fire Chief Mike Compton said.

“As our hearts are with the south, we find solace that at this very moment, there is a citizen hero helping someone in their time of need,” Compton said.

CSA Central Middle School students placed American flags on the Columbus City Hall grounds in memory of the victims of 9/11.
CSA Central Middle School students placed American flags on the Columbus City Hall grounds in memory of the victims of 9/11.

For more on the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony in Columbus, see Tuesday’s Republic.