(9/15) Gathering the community for a day of remembrance, a 20th anniversary commemoration was held at the Fairfield Regional 9/11 Memorial at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church.
Fairfield's local 9/11 Memorial was inspired by resident Anthony Venzin as part of his quest toward obtaining his Eagle Badge. Collaborating with his Scout Troop 75, members of Saint Mary’s, New York City Ground Zero officials, and much community support.
As a history buff, Venzin was inspired to make a concrete reminder to the dedication of first responders and those lost on 9/11 and insure no one would ever forget those impacted. The memorial is also home to a swamp white oak tree that was grown from an acorn found on a surviving tree at Ground Zero.
Gifted to the memorial committee by Ron Vega, director of design of the 9/11 Memorial in New York City, the tree stands as a symbol of resilience and recovery, with soil from the Pentagon and Shanksville.
"This is an extremely special day," Former Maryland Senator Frank Shore said, marveling at the community’s commitment to honor and remember the sacrifices made.
Attendees included members of the Fairfield Fire and EMS, the County Sheriff’s Department, Carroll Valley Police, and numerous government officials. The ceremony included performances from Saint Mary’s Choir, the Fairfield School Choir, and blessings from Bishop of Harrisburg Ronald Gainer.
Carroll Valley Mayor Ron Harris somberly read a timeline of the events that unfolded that fateful September morning as Fairfield Scout Troop 76 slowly raised state flags. "We have to carry the memory, and we have to keep feeling the way we felt that day," Harris said.
Pennsylvania State Representative Dan Moul reminded everyone that honoring those lost on 9/11 is a reminder to never take life or freedom for granted. The memorial to commemorate 9/11 was, "not about grief or sadness, but healing and peace," Moul said. Moul described America as a large family, one that they might tussle among themselves, but at the end of the day, they love each other and always stand up for each other.
"The immediate aftermath of 9/11 was a showcase of true American strength and resolve, sparking a renewed sense of unity and pride across the country and inspired numerous young people who answered the call to join the military and become first responders," Moul said.
The 20th anniversary was the first commemoration held at the memorial since its construction in 2013, and the Fairfield Regional 9/11 Memorial Committee hopes to make the anniversary bigger every year, Venzin said.
