Remembrance ceremonies in the Rochester area

Rochester, New York — Rochester local organization helps us not to forget those who lost their lives and the families that were impacted by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

The Veterans Outreach Center hosted “Operation We Remember” at the Blue Cross Arena Friday, where former CIA operative and Air Force veteran Dan Caster served as the keynote speaker.

According to Caster, during his service, he was engaged in the efforts to capture Osama Bin Laden.

Other officials also touched on the impact that 9-11 had on them.

“It’s been 20 years since our nation and the world was changed forever,” 138th District Assembly Member Harry Bronson said. “For many, 9-11 remains a lift experience. We know where we were when the news broke. We have a story, a connection, and a deep understanding of that day. For young adults of today and future generations, there is no memory of that tragic day. So we must share with them, lest we forget. What that fateful morning meant for our country.”

20th anniversary 9-11 shirts can be purchased at VOC’s Stars and Stripes Flag store on South Avenue with proceeds supporting services needed for local veterans.

In front of the Student Alumni Union, the Rochester Institute of Technology hosted its annual ceremony Friday over in Henrietta. Taps were played in front of a flag at 8:46, 9:37, and 10:03 a.m. as a tribute to those who died in each attack.

A cadet second lieutenant explained how 9-11 has influenced his life.

”It’s one of the primary reasons I decided to serve,” the cadet said. “I was barely alive on the day that it happened. I remember every single year in school learning about it. It resonated in me throughout the way that I would want to stand up for the people we lost that day and make sure it never happens again.”