Remembering and Honoring those Lost on 911
U. P. Mayor Javier Figueroa and Police Chief Pat Burke attended a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Reflection Park, commemorating the 24th anniversary of the attacks. The park, situated in front of WPFR Station 31, honors nearly 3,000 victims and features a “Weeping Wall” with the names of 403 first responders who died on that fateful day. Figueroa’s remarks emphasized the value of heroism and compassion, urging attendees to embody these qualities daily, stating, “It feels better to care and console than to blame or berate.
” The memorial also showcases a steel piece from the World Trade Center, transported to Washington by WPFR firefighters in 2012. This event aimed to inspire ongoing community support and kindness, reinforcing the lessons learned from the tragedy. Reflection Park stands as a symbol of remembrance and resilience, fostering a spirit of unity among the community. The ceremony highlighted the enduring impact of 9/11 on local and national consciousness, advocating for compassion over division. The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the importance of coming together in the face of adversity.