Rancho Cordova Mayor David M. Sander, Ph. D stands alongside Metro Fire officers at the Sept. 11 opening ceremony of the Remembering Our Fallen memorial. Photo courtesy

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - As the nation gathers in remembrance of the tragic events that occurred 23 years ago, we reflect on the devastating attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. That’s when terrorists hijacked four planes, crashing them into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania killing nearly 3,000 people. In honor of this somber anniversary, the city of Rancho Cordova is hosting the “Remembering Our Fallen” exhibit. The exhibit, which opened on Sept. 11, will be on display at Rancho Cordova City Hall until Sept. 15.

The memorial features a collection of military and personal photographs, each a testament to the lives and sacrifices of those who served following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. This tribute aims to ensure that these brave individuals are remembered and their legacy preserved.

The opening ceremony included a heartful performance by the Rancho Cordova River City Concert Band, a presentation of colors by the U.S. Army Color Guard and featured speeches from various community and military leaders.

The memorial included a presentation of colors by the U.S. Army Color Guard. Photo by Ornella Rossi

Mayor David M. Sander, Ph. D delivered a heartful speech emphasizing the profound impact of 9/11 on the nation.

“I am an ordinary American who will pause today and just like you, remember those who have given so much to our country,” Sander said. “Our nation was forever changed. In the span of a few hours, we lost 3,000 lives in an unspeakable act of terror. But from the ashes of that dark day, a new generation of heroes arose, inspired to protect the freedoms under attack. Their sacrifice is now etched in the fabric of our nation’s story.”

Battalion Chief Kim Fong of Metro Fire honored the fallen first responders from Sept. 11, 2001, including 243 firefighters, 60 police officers, and eight paramedics.

“As firefighters, we carry that legacy of selflessness forward,” Fong said. “Metro Fire will continue to train, adapt, and improve our tactics to better serve you. It is our vow to hold the promise of never forgetting.”

Rancho Cordova Police Chief Matt Tamayo expressed his deep respect and enduring memory for those who sacrificed their lives.

Rancho Cordova Mayor David M. Sander, Ph. D and Rancho Cordova Police Chief Matt Tamayo were amongst the speakers at the Sept. 11 memorial event. Photo by Ornella Rossi

 

“I’m honored and humbled to be speaking here today,” Tamayo said. “At that time, it was difficult for me to grasp the enormity of the event and forecast the subsequent impact it would have on the community, the law enforcement community, the military community and the nation. I will remember that sacrifice forever.”

Matt Ceccato, a decorated combat veteran wounded in combat shared his journey at the memorial. Serving now as Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Ami Bera, Ceccato was struck by gunfire in both legs during his second deployment, causing an injury that initially left him unable to walk.

“I am standing here with my two daughters who weren’t here on 9/11. It comes to show how we must teach the younger generations to never forget,” Ceccato said. “As my military tenure came to an end at an abrupt halt, I understood what others those years before me must have felt. I understood what our first responders and heroes that came to help must have felt. One common cause united them.”

The “Remember the Sky” social media campaign was a highlight of the memorial, designed to connect a new generation with the lessons learned from 9/11. On Sept. 11, individuals across the nation are invited to share images of the sky above them, inspired by the clear blue sky present in New York City on the morning of the attacks. This digital tribute, marked by the hashtag #rememberthesky, fosters a moment of reflection and remembrance, emphasizing a commitment to never forget and honor the sacrifices of those who served.

“We are the generation that came after the events of 9/11. As we have grown, we have come to learn the stories, pain, and resilience that define that moment in Americas history,” said Van Merrill a student from the Cordova High School. “As we have grown, we have come to learn the stories, pain, and resilience that define that moment in Americas history. While we cannot change the past, we have the power to shape the future, where love overcomes hatred, where unity and diversity triumph over division, and peace is strived for every single day.”

The memorial will offer complimentary hot dogs and live music on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Self-guided tours of the exhibit are available daily until 7:30 p.m. at the Rancho Cordova City Hall, 2729 Prospect Park. The “Remembering Our Fallen” memorial is a heartfelt reminder of the enduring legacy of those who gave their lives in service to their country.