WARSAW — This year's remembrance of the 9/11 terror attacks in Kosciusko County will be bigger than in past years.

The 9/11 Memorial Remembrance Committee, supported by the ML Community Impact Alliance, invites the public to join in a special 25th Anniversary 9/11 Memorial Parade and Community Memorial Service on Friday, Sept. 1.

The events will honor those who lost their lives, recognize the heroes who answered the call, and inspire a new generation to carry forward the unity and resilience that emerged in the days that followed.

[caption id="attachment_134454" align="alignright" width="222"] Mark Eaton[/caption]

The evening’s keynote speaker will be Mark Eaton, Executive Director of the EatonLeadership Foundation. For more than four decades, Eaton has dedicated his career to leadership development, executive coaching, mentoring, and nonprofit service. Through the Foundation, he develops leaders of character, integrity, and purpose while strengthening individuals, organizations and communities around the nation.

His message will focus on leadership, hope, service, and the enduring strength of the American people. Eaton also manages multi-award-winning artist Susie McEntire.

The evening will begin with the 9/11 Memorial Parade stepping off at 6:30 p.m. from Boggs Industrial Park and traveling along Center Street to Indiana Street before concluding at Central Park in downtown Warsaw. Participants should begin lining up at 5:30 p.m., with parade registration information available soon on the Kosciusko County Freedom Fest Facebook page.

As our nation commemorates America 250 and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this memorial reminds us that America’s story is defined not only by its founding but also by the moments that have tested our resolve.

The attacks of Sept. 11 forever changed our nation, yet they also revealed the courage, compassion, unity, and patriotism that continue to define the American spirit. As we celebrate 250 years of freedom, remembering the sacrifices and lessons of September 11 helps preserve an important chapter of America’s story for future generations.

Firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, veterans, active-duty military personnel, Gold Star families, civic organizations, businesses, churches, schools, youth organizations, and community members are encouraged to participate or attend as we remember the nearly 3,000 innocent victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and honor the courage and sacrifice of those who answered the call.

Immediately following the parade, a brief community memorial service will begin at approximately 7:15 p.m. at Central Park.

Designed to be meaningful and respectful, the program will provide an opportunity for reflection without an extended outdoor ceremony. It is intended as a community observance—not a worship service—and welcomes people of all backgrounds.

The memorial service will feature the Presentation of the Colors, patriotic music, a moment of silence, community participation, and Mark Eaton’s keynote address.

Before and after the memorial service, everyone is invited to America’s Picnic at Central Park, where complimentary hot dogs will be served. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy fellowship with friends and neighbors as we honor the memory of Sept.  11 while celebrating the freedoms and values that unite our nation.

America has always been strongest when its citizens care for one another. Together, let us restore the patriotic spirit of Sept. 12, 2001, by serving our neighbors and building stronger communities for future generations.

This September 12, we invite our community to renew that spirit by making it a Day of Service. Mow a neighbor’s lawn, deliver groceries, visit a veteran, or simply stop by for a conversation with someone who could use a friend. Small acts of kindness strengthen our communities and remind us of what unites us.

The event is free and open to the public. Donations to help support the memorial ceremony and America’s Picnic are welcome. For more information, parade registration, or support, please contact info@kcfreedomfest.org.

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