The Reading Fire Department held a solemn memorial service in City Park to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on Wednesday morning. Local residents, city officials, and first responders gathered near the September 11th Memorial Tree, which stands as a living tribute to those who lost their lives that tragic day. Watch the full ceremony: berksweekly.app/live
The ceremony paid tribute to all victims of the attacks, which claimed nearly 3,000 lives at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. As a fire department-led service, a particular focus was given to the 343 New York City firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while attempting to save lives during the collapse of the Twin Towers.
City Fire Chief James Stoudt Jr. opened the service with a heartfelt reflection on the bravery and selflessness exhibited by first responders 23 years ago. “Watching and knowing that the crews that day, they went into that building with every intention of rescuing everyone they possibly could and they had the intentions and thoughts of attempting to put that fire out. They did everything humanly possible. Not one of them stepped aside or stepped back or did anything different” said Stoudt.
Mayor Eddie Moran also addressed the crowd, reflecting on the importance of remembering not only the lives lost but also the unity and resilience that arose in the aftermath. “It is crucial to remember the enduring spirit of cooperation that came from the wreckage of 9-11. As we gather today, we witness bravery, kindness and selflessness. We must uphold this spirit as a city and as a country.”
Following the speeches, City Council President Donna Reed shared a poem titled Prayers of Steal by Carlos Sandburg. The event concluded with the laying of a wreath at the memorial tree, in remembrance of the lives lost. The silence was punctuated by the tolling of a fire bell, rung in 4 sets of 5, which is the FDNY signal for a line of duty death.
As the community gathered, there was a shared sense of remembrance, resilience, and hope for the future, with several attendees commenting on the importance of continuing to honor those lost and the sacrifices made.
