Indy Airport Commemorates 18th Anniversary of 9/11
Ceremony remembered those men and women who lost their lives in attacks
INDIANAPOLIS (Sept. 11, 2019) – The Indianapolis Airport Authority hosted a ceremony today at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to honor the more than 3,000 men and women who lost their lives 18 years ago in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States.
IAA first responders and the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration participated in today’s ceremony to remember victims and first responders who lost their lives at the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and United Flight 93 over Pennsylvania.
“Today’s ceremony honors the strength and courage of the American people who grieved through the tragic events of 9/11 and have moved forward together as one nation,” said IAA Executive Director Mario Rodriguez.
A piece of the World Trade Center steel recovered from Ground Zero, measuring approximately 12” x 12” x 6” and weighing about 40 pounds, was placed on display in Civic Plaza for the day.
“The piece of steel from World Trade Center is a constant reminder of the first responders at Ground Zero and the battle they faced,” said IAA Fire Chief Rick Gentry. “Additionally, it reminds us of the unity amongst those who came together on that sad day to show that together we stand strong and nothing can divide us.”
In 2011, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey presented the recovered steel to local Indianapolis public-safety responders and IAA employees who assisted at the attack site in 2001. The artifact remains on display permanently at the Indy airport’s fire station 1 throughout the year.
“September 11 is a day that will be remembered forever,” said IAA Sr. Director of Operations & Public Safety Keith Berlen. “So many brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice that day -- and today’s ceremony remembers and honors their bravery and patriotism.”