KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – Communities across East Tennessee will pause Friday to remember the victims, survivors and heroes of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks as the nation marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Special ceremonies, memorial services and public events are planned throughout the region.
Knoxville Expands Annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony
The City of Knoxville is expanding its annual observance this year and moving the event to a new location. Mayor Indya Kincannon and city leaders will host a memorial ceremony at Delaney Plaza along Stadium Way beginning with music at approximately 8:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 11. A moment of silence will be observed at 8:46 a.m., marking the time American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Bells will also toll in remembrance.
The ceremony will include a flag procession, bagpipes, musical performances and remarks from community leaders before concluding with a benediction.
Memorial Stair Climb at Covenant Health Park
Immediately following Knoxville’s memorial ceremony, first responders and community members will participate in the Knoxville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Covenant Health Park, located at 500 E. Jackson Avenue. The climb begins at 9:30 a.m. and honors the 343 firefighters who died responding to the attacks at the World Trade Center. Participants will climb the equivalent of the Twin Towers’ 110 stories.
Oak Ridge Ceremonies Planned
In neighboring Anderson County, Oak Ridge High School and the Kingston Fossil Plant will host events commemorating the anniversary. Community leaders say the ceremonies will pay tribute to those lost in the attacks while recognizing the courage of first responders and military personnel who served in the years that followed.
Sevier County Marks Anniversary
Sevier County officials announced plans to commemorate the anniversary through a special observance that includes the ringing of the historic 1896 courthouse bell. County leaders say the event is intended to honor the victims of 9/11 and reflect on the lasting impact of the attacks a quarter-century later.
Blount County Holds Weeklong Tribute
In Blount County, the Mary Blount Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is hosting a weeklong remembrance display titled“Illuminating the Sacrifices Made for the Blessings of Liberty” at Foothills Mall in Maryville. On Sept. 11, volunteers will distribute “Never Forget” ribbons and provide educational materials honoring those who died in the attacks.
A related patriotic parade is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, with staging beginning at 8 a.m. and the parade stepping off at 11 a.m. in downtown Maryville.
Day of Service Activities
Knoxville residents also have an opportunity to participate in the AmeriCorps Seniors 9/11 Day of Service from 9 a.m. until noon Friday at the Ross Building, 2247 Western Avenue. The event focuses on community service as a way to honor those affected by the attacks.
A Day of Remembrance
The attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, claimed the lives of 2,977 people at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Twenty-five years later, East Tennessee communities continue the tradition of gathering to remember the victims, honor first responders and reflect on the unity that followed one of the nation’s darkest days.
