Highland Park’s 25th Anniversary Ceremony for 9/11 Remembrance

The city of Highland Park commemorated the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with a remembrance ceremony held at the Ravinia Festival Bennett Gordon Hall. The event took place on a sunny Friday, reminiscent of the weather on September 11, 2001, both in Highland Park and New York City.

Mike Moore from the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band performed ‘Taps’ from a balcony during the ceremony. The event brought together local officials, including elected representatives from Highland Park and Highwood. The ceremony, lasting just under an hour, featured the Pledge of Allegiance by the North Suburban Special Recreation Association.

Clara Gillis, a 17-year-old senior from Highland Park High School, sang the national anthem. Acknowledging her absence during the events of 9/11, she expressed gratitude for participating in the commemoration. ‘I am incredibly honored to sing the national anthem for this remembrance,’ Gillis stated.

The Highland Park Police and Fire Honor Guard initiated the ceremony by placing the colors. Rabbi Michael Schwab from the North Suburban Synagogue Beth El offered an invocation, and Mayor Nancy R. Rotering of Highland Park addressed the audience. She reflected on the tragic loss of 2,977 lives and the ongoing impact of that day.

Highland Park Chief of Police Louis Jogmen and Fire Chief Joseph Schrage delivered keynote speeches, highlighting the important lessons for educating younger generations. Jogmen stressed the significance of turning a historical event into a meaningful learning opportunity. Schrage praised Highland Park fire personnel who assisted in New York City during rescue efforts.

He also honored first responders who helped in the aftermath, noting their readiness to support grieving families of the 300 firefighters killed in action. The ceremony concluded with Mike Moore playing ‘Taps’ and a performance by the Highland Park High School string quintet.

Following the ceremony, U.S. Representative Brad Schneider emphasized the unity shown by the nation in 2001. ‘We need to revive that spirit to reunite the nation today,’ Schneider remarked.