09/11/2026
Twenty-five years ago today, on September 11, 2001, our nation experienced a tragedy that forever changed our country.
Nearly 3,000 lives were lost in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and aboard Flight 93. Among them were hundreds of first responders who answered the call that morning, running toward danger to help others. In the years since, many more first responders, recovery workers and survivors have lost their lives or continue to live with illnesses related to that day.
Today, we remember them. We remember the families whose lives were forever changed. We remember the courage and sacrifice witnessed that morning, those who stepped forward to serve in the days and years that followed, and the sense of unity that brought communities across our nation together.
This morning, the City of Solon gathered at Veterans Park to mark the 25th anniversary and ensure that, as another generation grows up without their own memories of September 11, its stories and lessons continue to be carried forward.
Our ceremony included remarks and reflections from Mayor Edward Kraus, Fire Chief Shawn Toth, Police Chief Courtenay Perkins, SFD Battalion Chief Amanda Horvath, Parks & Recreation Director Rich Parker and retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Michael Parsons. The Solon Fire Honor Guard presented the colors, and members of the Solon Police and Fire Departments presented a memorial wreath.
We were especially grateful to have Solon High School students join us in remembrance. Under the direction of Gerry MacDougall, the SHS Orchestra provided beautiful prelude music and our National Anthem, and SHS senior Tre Mallia honored those we remember with the playing of Taps.
Thank you to everyone who joined us this morning to pause, reflect and remember.
We remember the lives lost. We honor those who served. And we carry their memory forward.
We will never forget.
