Behind the Badge
One of the first officers on the scene at the San Bernardino terror attack will be among those marking the 15th anniversary of 9/11 at the City National Grove of Anaheim.
Also invited to this year’s memorial, since Sept. 11 is now known as the National Day of Service and Remembrance: More than 40 Orange County non-profits.
A presidential proclamation encourages charitable service as a tribute to Sept. 11 victims, survivors and those who responded to the attacks.
Having non-profits on site will make it easier for folks to “step up and get involved and give back,” says Anaheim Fire & Rescue Public Safety spokesman Sgt. Daron Wyatt.
Attendees will get the chance to take part in some onsite service projects, such as packaging disaster kits for needy families, painting trash cans to beautify the community and creating patriotic chew toys for service dogs.
They also will be encouraged to sign an “I Will” volunteer pledge and commit to help a local nonprofit for at least an hour a month over the course of the next year.
Mayor Tom Tait, Anaheim Fire & Rescue Chief Randy Bruegman and Anaheim Police Chief Raul Quezada are all slated to make remarks at the remembrance. Some musical performances are also scheduled, including the Vanguard University Concert Choir and a song by Anaheim Deputy Chief Dan Cahill’s daughter Holly, called “You Still Put The Uniform On.”
“Anaheim residents and visitors are encouraged to attend this free event, which brings the city together to reflect on a day when our nation’s resilience shined in the face of tragedy,” says Anaheim Fire & Rescue spokeswoman Marty De Sollar.
Tributes will be paid to some police officers, firefighters and paramedics who responded to the 2015 San Bernardino mass shooting.
The city moved the event from the Grand Plaza at the Convention Center to The Grove in anticipation of more than 1,000 attendees.
“We want everyone who can to come out and participate in the ceremony,” Wyatt says.
For more information, please visit OneOC’s 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance page.
What: 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance
When: Sunday, Sept. 11
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave, Anaheim
Cost: Free
Parking: Ample and free
More: Visitanaheim.org/Sept11
