This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Neighbors, friends, and community representatives are uniting for “A Day of Remembrance” at Easton’s own 9/11 memorial in front of the Easton Public Library on Saturday, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m.
The event will honor those we lost, those who serve, and those who grieve. Representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, The National Guard, Life Star, and American Red Cross will participate. Dr. Thomas McMorran, interim superintendent of schools, as well as our police, fire and emergency services personnel will speak.
The ceremony will begin with the procession of flags, followed by the Joel Barlow High School choir offering patriotic songs. The monarch butterfly exhibit, built by Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, will be on display in remembrance of Christine Hanson, the youngest to have died on 9/11.
There are three benches at the head of the memorial in honor of Peter Burton Hanson, Sue Kim Hanson and Christine Hanson, 2 1/2, all of whom were lost that day. Peter, who grew up in Easton, was the son of Eunice and Lee Hanson, well-known and respected community leaders.
At precisely 8:46, the town’s churches will begin the ringing of the bells to remember all who were lost on 9/11, as well as those who were killed in Afghanistan last week. The bells will sound 13 times in their honor.
Easton is a special place and a loving community. The event is a testimony to the courage, grace, and profound loss of that day. The program and ringing of the bells will offer an opportunity for reflection.
