The City of Alexandria hosted a remembrance ceremony on Monday, September 11, to pay tribute to those who sacrificed and were lost on that date 22 years ago.

Speaking in front of assembled Alexandrians, City and state officials, and chiefs of public safety departments, Mayor Justin Wilson reminded attendees of the importance of unity in the face of divisiveness and community in times of need.

“The most important thing that came out of the 9/11 experience was that national unity that we saw in the immediate aftermath. I would argue in the 22 years since, we haven’t seen it again,” Wilson said. “That unity is one of the most important lessons of 9/11 and the reason that we have gatherings like today.”

The City recognized the contributions of first responders and others in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, including firefighters, medics, law enforcement officers, and civilians from across the commonwealth.

Representing the public safety departments that answered the call for support, Police Chief Don Hayes, Sheriff Sean Casey, and Assistant Fire Chief Andrew L. Duke each gave remarks.

“We may wear different uniforms, but there is something inside us that beats on the same heartbeat,” said Hayes. “We are one Alexandria and one public safety.”

While remembering the acts of bravery, those assembled also mourned the losses suffered that day and the repercussions felt since.

“9/11 ended a long national holiday in American history,” said Congressman Don Beyer (Va.), also in attendance. “It had been 60 years since any enemy had dared to attack us. 9/11 changed our lives forever.”

But our City and our country are resilient, a point all the speakers came back to.

“I believe history has a direction, and that direction is forward,” Beyer said. “Keeping 9/11 in our hearts and minds will inspire us to keep moving forward.”

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you, please email ocpi@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.

Language statements in Amharic, Arabic, and Spanish are also available.