On Thursday morning, the Lake County Historical Museum hosted the county’s annual memorial observance of September 11, marking the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that changed the nation forever.

Division Chief Mark Kidd of the City of Tavares Fire Department opened the ceremony, reminding those gathered of the weight of the day.

“On this 24th anniversary, we honor and remember the 2,977 individuals who were killed in the terrorist attacks on the United States of America September 11, 2001,” Chief Kidd says. “From the tragedy that day came a powerful reminder of who we are when we stand together – resilient, compassionate and united.”

The ceremony included the presentation of a 9/11 artifact from the World Trade Center, readings of victims’ names by local students, and words of remembrance from our county’s leaders.

Chief Kidd emphasized the importance of keeping the promise to remember, saying, “We will never forget the innocent lives lost that day. We will never forget the first responders and recovery workers who gave everything, many paying the ultimate sacrifice for their service. We will never forget the families who were left behind and those who still carry a heavy burden of grief, loss and unanswered questions.”

Major Christie Mysinger of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office shared the somber toll.

“On this day, 24 years ago, 2,753 people died at the World Trade Center, 184 died at the Pentagon, and 40 more died in a Pennsylvania field, where Flight 93 crashed. Among those who died were 343 firefighters and 71 law enforcement officers. We saw people around the country sending support, giving blood, donating money, clothing, and anything they had on hand that could help. Strangers helping strangers.”

She ended with President George W. Bush’s words, “The terrorist attacks can shake the foundation of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America.”

Commissioner Sean Parks urged those gathered to take the day as an opportunity. “

Today is an opportunity for all of us to recommit ourselves to the values of courage, service, and unity that rose from the ashes of that tragedy 24 years ago today,” he says. “This year, our remembrance is made even more sobering by the assassination of Charlie Kirk that happened just less than 24 hours ago. No matter where we stand politically, I want to make this clear. His killing was a reminder that violence, hatred, and division remain threats to the very freedoms and securities that we cherish.”

Commissioner Leslie Campione also stood with words of encouragement.

“In one single moment, life may never be the same,” she says. “As you live and enjoy the breaths you take today and tonight before you go to sleep in preparation for your life tomorrow. Kiss the ones you love, snuggle a little tighter and never take one second of your life for granted.”

Judge James Baxley recalled the moment he first learned of the attacks.

“I walked into the room and immediately I could feel the tension,” he says, describing colleagues watching the news in shock.  “I can promise you, I will never take these freedoms for granted ever again, and I hope none of us do.”

“So we come here today to honor those who’ve lost their lives in that tragic event, and those whose lives will be changed forever,” he says. “We come to honor all those who selflessly answer their country’s call to service, to help their fallen brothers and sisters in a time of need. We come to honor every American who joined their ranks to become united again, to set aside their personal differences, to love one another and to stand up for freedom.”

As local students stepped to the podium to read the names of 9/11 victims,  their voices ensured that the promise to “never forget” will carry forward to a new generation.