City plans low-key memorials for Sept. 11

While commemoration of the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001 will be heavily concentrated in New York and Washington D.C., Philadelphians will also take some time to reflect on the acts of terrorism that affected the entire nation two years ago today.

Last year, Americans everywhere joined together for countless memorial services, marches, speeches and other programs designed to remember the tragedy and its thousands of victims. The city also maintained some of its heightened security measures, focusing specifically on the vulnerability of historical sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

But while the anniversary of the terrorist attacks will be acknowledged again this year, it will be on a much smaller scale.

"We will come together for the second year in a row," Mayor John Street wrote in a statement, "to solemnly remember the victims of that terrible day, while also sending a clear signal to terrorists that we are not afraid and remain strong, proud and united."

At noon, residents throughout the city will be asked to observe a moment of silence honoring the victims of Sept. 11. Two separate memorial services will also be held.

Street has asked that all city residents participate in this moment of reflection, even those who are in their own homes and businesses at the time.

"We designed it so people can come out of their offices and join us for the moment of silence," Deputy City Representative Bonnie Grant said.

The Philadelphia Firefighters Union, Local 22, will lead a silent march beginning at the Firefighters Union Hall, located at 5th and Willow streets, and ending at the Living Flame Memorial at Franklin Square Park, located at 6th and Race streets, according to the Fire Commissioner's Office.

A memorial service will be held at the conclusion of the march, and participants will honor the citywide moment of silence at noon. Street, Police Commissioner Sylvester Johnson and Fire Commissioner Harold Hairston are all scheduled to speak at the service.

"We will honor those who lost their lives in New York at the World Trade Center, as well as police and firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty in Philadelphia," Executive Chief of the Philadelphia Fire Department Bill Brightcliffe said.

The ceremony will also include a performance by South Philadelphia's High School for Creative and Performing Arts choir, and prayers will be led by clergymen of various denominations.

Street plans to march alongside the police and firefighters, and will speak at the Living Flame Memorial before being transported by car to the city memorial service at John F. Kennedy Plaza. From there, he will join many city and religious leaders for an hour-long inter-faith remembrance ceremony following the moment of silence.

In addition to the ceremonies, Philadelphia's landmark fountains at Logan Circle and JFK Plaza will be stopped and restarted after the moment of silence at noon in honor of the victims.

The public is invited to attend both memorial services.

"I expect a lot of people to participate," Grant said.

"I think people want to be respectful and remember the events of that day," she added. "People are looking for a way to come together."

According to a Philadelphia Police Department spokeswoman, there have been no discussions of taking any extra security measures in light of the anniversary this year.

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