The event was hosted in partnership with the American Legion and featured a 21-gun salute from local veterans and dignitary speakers from the area. Featured speakers included American Legion member Jeff Levandoski, Director of the Chautauqua County Veterans Service Agency Greg Carlson, representative for Chautauqua County Blue Star Mother of America Susan Rowley, Chautauqua County Undersheriff Nate Baideme, Christine Rinaldi of U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy’s office, state Assemblyman Andrew Molitor, state Senator George Borello, and County Executive Paul Wendel. Every member present, regardless of a wide range of differences, stood united in remembrance for those who had fallen.

Rowley spoke on the importance of recognizing those who risked, or even lost, their lives in the war on terror following the attack. Rowley listed the names of six gold star heroes of Chautauqua County who lost their lives in combat as a result of the response efforts to the attacks, giving remembrance to some members of the county who had been a victim of the violence of Sept. 11.

Borrello recalled the day in great detail, citing his grandmother’s reaction to the event. Borrello noted the number of life changing events his grandmother had experienced throughout her life, things such as Pearl Harbor and the assassination of J.F.K., yet he recounted the way Sept. 11 still shook her to her core. Borrello’s recollection shows just how powerful of an impact these attacks had, yet gave a strong message of our strength with unity especially immediately following the attacks.

All of the speakers present were in agreement that we must not only memorialize those who lost their lives as a result of the attacks, but we must also honor their sacrifices through our actions.

Commemorative stone from the Chautauqua County Joint Veterans Council.

“We are the ones that remain, and we owe it to the good people who we lost to live better lives as a result,” Molitor said.

To watch the live stream of the event visit https://youtu.be/U_ley9mwxL4.

Jeff Levandoski introduces speakers.

Chautauqua County Executive Paul Wendel Speaking.

Jeff Levandoski speaking at the remembrance ceremony.