Manatee County Remembers 9/11 with Ceremonies Honoring Fallen Heroes and First Responders

Manatee County Veterans Services team members were among the attendees at yesterday's 9/11 remembrance ceremony held at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus. The event, which drew a large audience, featured guest speaker Battalion Chief John “Jack” McDonnell, a former Captain of Ladder 24 during the World Trade Center terrorist attacks. The ceremony included a moving wreath-laying tribute, bagpipers playing "Amazing Grace," and children from Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School performing "God Bless America" along with the U.S. Military Medley.

In Bradenton, Mayor Gene Brown, members of the Bradenton City Council, City Administrative staff, and members of the Bradenton Police and Fire Departments joined local first responders at Rossi Park for the Manatee County Fire Chiefs Association’s Tribute to Heroes Memorial Service. The gathering honored the victims of September 11, 2001, while recognizing the bravery and sacrifice of those who responded to the attacks.

Mayor Brown also issued a special proclamation, declaring September 11, 2024, as Tribute to Heroes Day. This day honors the firefighters, police officers, and emergency responders who gave their lives without hesitation, along with those who continue to serve the community every day. Yesterday’s events allowed the community to come together to remember the fallen and express gratitude to those who protect and serve.