NANTICOKE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Wednesday marks the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and one local college is paying its respects through an annual remembrance event.
Silence falls over the Luzerne County Community College Wednesday as its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony and brick dedication is held on campus.
Flight 93 National Memorial remembers 9/11 23 years later: Never Forget
Taking place at its walk of honor, the memorial site was inspired back in 2014 by a local family.
“Phyllis Carlo, a mother. A mother of two New York City firefighters, Michael and Robert Carlo. Michael and Robert both went into the World Trade Center. Tragically, only Robert came out and Michael perished,” said John Yudichak, President, Luzerne County Community College
It’s a somber place where people can come and reflect on the tragic events, 23 years later.
“Having them being part of the ceremony and coming here and seeing, listening to the first responders and hearing their stories, gives them an education of what they missed and things that I think they need to know and something that’ll hold dear to their hearts,” said Doug Fawbush, Director of Safety/Security, Luzerne County
More than 2,700 victims were killed in the attack. Moments of reflection were taken while looking at a memorial replicating the Twin Towers, and a piece of steel in the middle from the site itself.
“When they built this, it was our way in Northeastern Pennsylvania to show them that we’re behind them. You know, showing them all the support and anything that we can give them,” said Chief Mark Boncal, City of Nanticoke Fire Department
People can walk along the bricks of dedication. Showing a symbol of moving forward from tragedy, but never forgetting those lost.
“Our fire department donated a brick for my dad, Jay Munson, who was in the fire department for about 40 years. It’s great to extend, not only honor the people that were involved in the 9/11 attacks and everything after that, but for family members too,” said Lieutenant Keith Munson, City of Nanticoke Fire Department.
Members of the Nanticoke City Fire Department will continue to pay homage to their brothers and sisters lost in 9/11 next week, as they are set to host a memorial motorcycle group comprised of active and retired FDNY firefighters at the campus’ walk of honor.
