‘Honored to recognize the ultimate sacrifice’: Madison hosting annual 9/11 ceremony

MADISON — In honor of one of America’s most solemn of occasions, the City of Madison will be hosting its annual 9-11 ceremony paying tribute to those who lost their lives on that tragic day 23 years ago.

“We acknowledge the sacrifice first responders and military men and women made for others on this day,” Mayor of Madison Paul Finley. “While 9/11 symbolizes tragedy it is also a day of true acts of patriotism. We will always need brave people, willing to act and to sacrifice to keep others safe, and so on September 11th, we show appreciation for those we’ve lost and we thank those who are still on the frontlines.”

Presentations will be held by the Madison Police Department and Madison Fire and Rescue.

“We are honored to recognize the ultimate sacrifice the First Responders made at 911.343 FDNY and 71 local, state, and Federal Law Enforcement Officers kept rescuing civilians long after the danger to their lives was evident at the Twin Towers,” Madison Fire & Rescue Chief David Bailey said. “We recognize all the brave souls who died at the Pentagon that day. We also recognize the civilians on the four planes who died innocently, including the 40 brave crew and passengers on Flight 93 who fought the four hijackers preventing the crash in the Capitol Building.

“We will never forget them.”

The ceremony will be held at Toyota Field. Gates will open at 8 a.m. with presentations.

“The world witnessed true valor and selfless sacrifice amidst the horror of flames and destruction, as Madison first responders, we remember and pray for all the innocent lives lost,” said Madison Police Chief John Gandy. “Yet, we are also inspired by, and honor, the sacrifice of those who answered the call on that fateful day. May we always feel their spirit of courage as we continue to serve and protect our own outstanding community here in Madison.”

The Memorial Stair Climb, a tribute to the firefighters who gave their lives at the World Trade Center on 9-11, will begin at approximately 8:30 a.m. Participation and parking is free at both events.