Throughout the day on Wednesday, Sept. 11, there are events planned around Orange County to remember the loss and heroism experienced more than two decades ago during the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
Here are some of the events you can attend in remembrance of the nearly 3,000 who died and all those affected:
Irvine: Orange County Fire Authority will host an 8:30 a.m. ceremony at its Regional Fire Operations and Training Center in Irvine, which will include an honor guard and bell-ringing ceremony, speakers and the center’s 9/11 memorial. It can be watched online on the OCFA’s Facebook page, @OCFireAuthority. To RSVP email [email protected].
Yorba Linda: The Nixon Presidential Library & Museum will hold an 11 a.m. ceremony that will include remarks from Sheriff Don Barnes and Orange County Fire Authority Chief Brian Fennessy. Marc Manfro, a retired New York Police Department officer who was among the first responders that day, will also speak. There will be performances by OCFA’s Pipes and Drums, Villa Park High School Band, Orange High School Chamber Singers and the OC Master Chorale. The remembrance will be in the Nixon Library’s East Room, and is free to attend, but does not include admission to the library’s galleries.
Mission Viejo: The city plans a Patriot Day remembrance ceremony to honor those who were killed and those who ran to the rescue. Gather from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Oso Creek Trailhead Memorial Flagpole next to the Potocki Center of the Arts lower parking lot at 27301 La Paz Road.
Rancho Santa Margarita: A Patriot Day ceremony is planned at the Rancho Santa Margarita Civic Plaza from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. “Together, we will reflect on the enduring spirit of unity, resilience, and hope that defines our great nation,” organizers said.
Huntington Beach: The city will hold a Patriot Day ceremony at 6 p.m. at the 9/11 Memorial at Pier Plaza. Local public safety personnel and Mayor Gracey Van Der Mark will lead the gathering in honoring those who were killed and injured in the terrorist attacks. “We also pay tribute to the incredible bravery of the firefighters, police officers and civilians who showed extraordinary heroism on that tragic day,” organizers said.
Orange: The Orange Elks Lodge #1475 will hold a Patriot Day ceremony in front of City Hall at 6:30 p.m. There will be speakers from the fire and police departments, representatives from the city, a color guard presentation and more at this third annual event.
