Central Valley communities prepare to mark 25th anniversary of 9/11
SANGER, Calif. (KFSN) -- Central California communities are preparing tributes ahead of the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, honoring the fallen heroes and the thousands of lives lost when coordinated attacks struck New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
Friday marks 25 years since 2,977 people were killed on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, in a series of coordinated terrorist attacks. Across the region, cities and communities will hold ceremonies to remember those who died and reflect on a day that changed the country.
For many Central Valley residents, memories of that day remain vivid.
"I was actually on my way to school. I was a freshman in high school and I was heading into my biology class when I found out about it," said Casey Lucas of Oakhurst.
Lucas said the attacks created feelings of uncertainty.
"I just remember feeling really uncertain. It was my first experience with a lot of violence on our own soil," Lucas said.
Jeremy Lopez of Madera County also recalled the emotional impact of the events.
"It was a very scary moment. It was surreal," Lopez said.
Many residents can still remember where they were on Sept. 11, while a new generation is learning about the attacks through history lessons and community events.
At Sanger High School, American flags have been placed around campus to honor those who lost their lives and the heroes who responded that day. School leaders say the upcoming 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is student-driven and helps younger generations understand the significance of the attacks and their aftermath.
"These students, not only had they been born yet, but they were far removed by eight or nine years," said Principal Jon Tillotson.
The ceremony will also feature Michael Montelongo, the former assistant secretary of the Air Force, who was inside the Pentagon on the day of the attacks.
"Having somebody who was there on the East Coast and actually went through that horrific event and what it was like and what was going through his mind, it really is significant," Tillotson said.
Organizers say personal stories help connect generations and ensure the events of Sept. 11 are not forgotten.
"It really is important that they know that we don't let this be lost," Tillotson said.
He added that the country's response in the aftermath of the attacks remains an important lesson for students.
"How we grew as a country and went through those growing pains no matter what part of the political spectrum you were on. It was actually from one lens, quite inspiring to come together as Americans," Tillotson said.
For some residents, the legacy of Sept. 11 can still be seen in everyday life.
"TSA was born out of that. All the security. Just thinking you can get attacked in a public place," Lucas said.
Sanger High School's 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. Friday at the front of the school. Community members are invited to attend.
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