Remembrances around the state
Formal observances held throughout the state to honor those we lost
Events around Connecticut on Saturday commemorated the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, from a Department of Veterans Affairs ceremony in Rocky Hill to a concert at The Bushnell.
It was a day of respect, remembrance and ceremony as Connecticut honored those who’d died during the Sept. 11 attacks of 2001.
Anniversary events have taken many forms over the past week, from informal sharing of anecdotes and memories to performances and dedications. Saturday’s observances appeared to be marked by formality and somber reflection.
Events held around the state on Saturday included outdoor gatherings on New Haven Green, Middletown Veterans Memorial Park and elsewhere. Connecticut
United Ride held its annual 9/11 commemorative event for motorcyclists.
Two big indoor Saturday events were the 9/11 20th Anniversary Memorial Ceremony held at 11 a.m. by the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs in Rocky Hill and a “20th Anniversary Tribute to Sept. 11, 2001, concert by the Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords choral group.
The Vocal Chords show was the first concert event held at The
Bushnell since it was shuttered due to the COVID-19 pandemic 16
months ago. The Rocky Hill event, held in the DVA’s auditorium, was
attended by more than 100 people, many of whom were part of the ceremony.
In his religious invocation, Connecticut National Guard Chaplain Col. David Larsen said 9/11 “birthed in us selflessness, courage, kindness and compassion” and became “a part of our collective conscience.” He said the event should remind us that “winning the peace is as important as winning the war.”
DVA commissioner Thomas J. Saadi introduced the six guest speakers, who ranged from Commander Jacob Hurt of the Submarine Readiness Squadron