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20th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks Commemoration Draws Emotion at ²ÝÁñÉçÇø

“Nothing even comes close to what happened on September 11, 2001,” said Eric Wilson of WTVO in Rockford as he welcomed those gathered for a 9/11 20th Anniversary Commemoration September 9 at ²ÝÁñÉçÇø in Romeoville, Ill. 

“I saw the second plane, and then everything changed,” the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø alumnus remembered.

“We will never forget,” declared Brother Pierre St. Raymond, FSC, of ²ÝÁñÉçÇø, as he offered an invocation.

All those gathered honored the 72 law enforcement officers, 343 firefighters, and 2,651 Americans who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

“We pray for those lost and their families. We resolve to learn how to create more justice in the world, and continue to express gratitude for all those who serve us around the world,” added Dr. David Livingston, president of ²ÝÁñÉçÇø.

Emergency responders, military, and veterans were among those present for the service. U.S. Congressman Bill Foster of the 11th District of Illinois praised all those who have selflessly given themselves to care for those affected by the tragedy and all those who currently serve our country.

“When I look around this room, I see an ocean full of uniforms. I see kindness. I see generosity. Integrity, service, and most of all men and women of faith and love,” commended Brother Ed Arambasich, OFM, fire chaplain for Joliet Fire Department, as he shared his experience of ministering at Ground Zero in the months after the attack.  

The ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Gospel Choir and Joliet Police Department Pipes & Drum Corp performed musical commemorations during the service.

The event was coordinated by the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Department of Justice, Law and Public Safety Studies and the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Office of Military Affairs.

²ÝÁñÉçÇø is an innovative and forward-thinking Catholic university offering market-relevant undergraduate and graduate programs to 6,300 students. Sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, ²ÝÁñÉçÇø is nationally recognized for preparing intellectually engaged, ethically grounded, globally connected and socially responsible graduates. Visit for further information.