Today was a day of remembrance – 15 years later, the terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001 are etched in to our memories forever.

Bradley White, Lieutenant Paramedic of the Junction City Fire Department, was the keynote speaker at the 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony held in Heritage Park Sunday afternoon.

“September 11, 2001 – a day that stands in many of our minds present here today, whether it brings you back to where you were when time seemed to stand still,” said White. “Whether you were sitting in your school classroom or over your morning coffee in the firehouse…many of us here remember the terrible day that not only changed the lives of a few thousand families…it is an event, a significant piece of our recent history that has somehow or someway changed all of our lives.”

Vice Mayor/City Commissioner Phyllis Fitzgerald was the emcee for the event whom reflected on her memories from that day.

“Today is a day for all of us to remember, to reflect, and serve our nation and our communities,” said Fitzgerald.

Junction City Police Chief Dan Breci and Fire Chief Rick Rook took part in a special wreath ceremony as a part of the 9/11 Commemoration.

First responders from Junction City, Grandview Plaza, Fort Riley, Geary and Dickinson counties were in attendance in what turned out to be a community thank you to the servicemen and women.

After the benediction, Fitzgerald had one request of everyone in attendance:  “If you see a soldier, if you see a fireman, if you see a policeman – shake their hand and tell them thank you.”

What many remember as a somber day in history turned out to be one of appreciation, support and love for the community – hand shakes, hugs and photographs were shared amongst all in Heritage Park.