Willowbrook honors and remembers 25 years after Sept. 11, 2001

On Sept. 11, the Village of Villa Park hosted its 9/11 25th Anniversary Patriot Day Ceremony at Villa Park Fire Station 81. Hosted by the Villa Park Fire Department and Police Department, the morning ceremony brought firefighters, police officers, community members and local guests together to honor and remember those affected by the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

On Sept. 11, 2001, the United States experienced a tragic terrorist attack that claimed nearly 3,000 lives in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., including more than 400 first responders.

Willowbrook students participated in the ceremony through both music and service. The Willowbrook U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program presented the colors, while the Concert Choir performed the National Anthem. The performance gave Willowbrook students an opportunity to use music to reflect on the significance of the day and express their appreciation for the bravery, dedication and service of local first responders.

To view a photo gallery from the morning, see the images below.

As part of the 25th anniversary observance, attendees were invited to sign a special American flag as a lasting remembrance. Willowbrook Concert Choir and JROTC members added their signatures, creating a meaningful keepsake to honor those impacted by Sept. 11.

Later that evening, members of the military, veterans and first responders were honored with free admission and meals during Willowbrook's flag football and tackle football games.

The 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 provided a meaningful opportunity for students to learn about and reflect on an important moment in our nation's history, while honoring those who lost their lives and those who continue to serve and protect their communities.

To view a video clip of the Willowbrook Concert Choir performing the National Anthem, click on the video above.