One of the defining questions of an entire generation of Americans even over 15 years after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Since then an entire generation of Americans has been born and raised after it’s time, but our nation will never forget the event nor the changes it has wrought throughout our lives. Today, Signature Coins joins thousands of organizations and people across the nation in remembering and honoring the losses and sacrifices made during and following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City, the Pentagon, and the passengers on board United Airlines Flight 93. This year marks the 17th anniversary of the event and today, as well as every passing September 11th, victims will be remembered, ceremonies held, and moments of silence given to honor their passing.
As producers of challenge coins and other commemorative items, we receive orders upon orders every week, but we’re reminded each year of the upcoming 9/11 anniversary as charitable organizations and groups throughout the country send us orders to create challenge coins they can use to recognize the first responders who arrived at Ground Zero and to raise money to support the families and lives affected by the event.
9/11 Events Honoring Victims and First Responders
From annual stair climbs organized for charity to 9/11 memorial ceremonies honoring the first responders, we wish to do our part today to highlight different charities and events occurring throughout the nation to honor this year’s 9/11.
IAFF Memorial Stair Climbs
Organized by the International Association of Firefighters, local firefighter groups throughout the nation climb the equivalent of 110 floors of the World Trade Centers in honor of the FDNY firefighters who first rushed to Ground Zero to save lives and the 343 firefighters who lost their lives in the process. These IAFF events raise money for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support fire service survivors and their families throughout the nation. The IAFF is hosting multiple stair climb events throughout the nation including an event in Misawa Air Base in Japan.
San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
The San Diego 9/11 Stair Climb attracts hundreds of firefighters, emergency staff, and civilians each year to honor the memories of the lives lost on 9/11 and to raise money in support of firefighters who give their lives each year serving their communities. Each participant at this event will climb 110 floors in the name of a fallen First Responder to honor their sacrifice. The event supports FirefighterAid, a non-profit organization providing support and care for firefighters and their loved ones when they need it most.
Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance Candle Light Ceremony
An FDNY chaplain and several firefighters will host a candle lighting ceremony at the Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance, a set of granite walls located at MCU Park featuring the laser-engraved names and images of fallen 9/11 first responders. In all, the event will honor the names engraved into the wall including 346 Firefighters, 37 Port Authority Officers, 23 NYC Police Officers, 3 NYS Officers, one Fire Patrol, First responders, and one K-9 Rescue dog.
Tribute in Light
One of the most iconic memorials to 9/11, the Tribute in Light has been presented every year since first lighting the skyline six months after the events of 9/11. This year, the tradition will continue with twin pillars of light firing into the New York City skyline as a memorial to all of the victims who lost their lives during 9/11. Their light will be viewable from within a 60-mile radius of their origin point and the Memorial Plaza will be open in the afternoon to allow for viewing the memorial.
The 17th Anniversary of September 11
Local communities and organizations throughout the nation will be paying their respects at event, ceremonies, and memorials honoring the lives lost 17 years ago. While the events of that day will remain a black mark in our nation’s history, we join the thousands of individuals, organizations, and businesses this year who will be paying their respects and doing our part to honor the nation.