City of Alexandria Marks 9/11 Anniversary with Ceremony

Page updated on September 12, 2025 at 9:43 AM
Translate icon
A person sings during an outdoor event while several uniformed police officers, including some in formal attire with medals, stand at attention saluting.
A person in firefighter uniform is giving a speech at a podium decorated with flowers, under a wooden shelter, at a formal event. Flags are visible in the background, and two individuals in uniform are seated nearby.
An officer speaks at a podium adorned with flowers at an outdoor event at Market Square, with seated attendees in uniforms and formal attire listening attentively.
A police officer in uniform speaking at a podium with a floral arrangement, under a pergola in a public outdoor setting.
The sheriff in formal uniform is delivering a speech at a podium under a wooden pergola. Two other officers are seated nearby, listening attentively. Their backdrop is a brick building with a pleasant floral decoration.
Group of eight diverse professionals in formal and uniform attire, including fire, sheriff, and police officials, standing together at an outdoor event.
of
Grid View Close Modal
A person sings during an outdoor event while several uniformed police officers, including some in formal attire with medals, stand at attention saluting.
Jordan Curls sings the National Anthem at the 2025 City of Alexandria 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
A person in firefighter uniform is giving a speech at a podium decorated with flowers, under a wooden shelter, at a formal event. Flags are visible in the background, and two individuals in uniform are seated nearby.
Captain Nathan Krause of the Alexandria Fire Department gives an invocation at the 2025 City of Alexandria 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
An officer speaks at a podium adorned with flowers at an outdoor event at Market Square, with seated attendees in uniforms and formal attire listening attentively.
Chief Felipe Hernandez of the Alexandria Fire Department speaks before the crowd at the 2025 City of Alexandria 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
A police officer in uniform speaking at a podium with a floral arrangement, under a pergola in a public outdoor setting.
Alexandria Chief of Police Tarrick McGuire gives remarks at the 2025 City of Alexandria 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
The sheriff in formal uniform is delivering a speech at a podium under a wooden pergola. Two other officers are seated nearby, listening attentively. Their backdrop is a brick building with a pleasant floral decoration.
Sheriff Sean Casey speaks at the 2025 City of Alexandria 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
Group of eight diverse professionals in formal and uniform attire, including fire, sheriff, and police officials, standing together at an outdoor event.
Pictured: APD Communication Manager Tracy Walker, Chief Felipe Hernandez, Chief Tarrick McGuire, Mayor Alyia Gaskins, Sheriff Sean Casey, Councilman Canek Aguirre, Councilman Abdel-Rahman Elnoubi, and City Manager James Parajon

Amid the stirring tones of the National Anthem, sung by Jordan Curls, Alexandrians gathered on Market Square to mark the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. City of Alexandria public safety officials, City employees, Mayor Alyia Gaskins, and members of the Alexandria City Council gathered in Market Square to honor the bravery and sacrifice of those lost on September 11, 2001, along with the first responders, citizens, and survivors who met the call on that day. 

Speaking to the crowd, Mayor Gaskins recalled her experiences on September 11 and the lasting impact the events of that day had on her and our nation. 

“As the days went on, that stillness turned to action,” said Mayor Gaskins. “This is truly what it means to be one nation, under God. Because every single person… had to be a part of helping our country come together… Together we can mobilize and be stronger than any hate, any attack, any division.”  

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.

Chief Felipe Hernandez of the Alexandria Fire Department, Chief Tarrick McGuire of the Alexandria Police Department, and Sheriff Sean Casey of the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office gave remarks after an invocation from Fire Captain Nathan Krause.

Chief Hernandez remarked on the shaken sense of security, confidence, and order in the wake of the attacks while recounting the bravery of firefighters and EMS who responded on that day. Chief Hernandez also reflected on the many changes made since 2001 to ensure that public safety and first responders can work together as a unit. 

Chief McGuire recounted his experiences on 9/11, including a later meeting with President George W. Bush, where he recounted returning to D.C. to address the nation. “We make critical decisions when moments matter,” Said Chief McGuire. “It is a reminder that our goal is to protect our democracy every day.” 

“The inhumanity and cruelty of terror were met that day with humanity and a commitment to help others,” said Sheriff Casey. “[today], we must capture more kindness and compassion to counter evil and hate.” 

The 24 years since 9/11 have changed our nation, but have only strengthened our City’s commitment to resilience, safety, and working together to achieve our common goals. Each speaker returned to the connections and strengths of our City’s first response and public safety employees. 

The ceremony concluded with a somber return to quarters ceremony. As the bell rang out through Market Square, all in attendance observed a moment of silence.