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Victims of 9/11 honored by Rio Rancho
Cleveland’s JROTC and Rio Rancho Fire Rescue stand in front of a sea of American flags.
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RIO RANCHO — A 9/11 memorial ceremony was held at the Daniels Family Funeral Services’ Vista Verde location to honor those who lost their lives 23 years ago Wednesday evening.
The day prior, 2,996 American flags were planted to show respect to those who died in the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
Firetrucks were in attendance as was a giant American flag overlooking the entire crowd.
The ceremony started with a word from New York native JoAnne Kolb, a presentation of the flags by the Rio Rancho Fire Rescue and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Cleveland High School’s JROTC. The opening prayer was given by Chaplain Archibeque.
“We must remember those who have fallen, and it’s important to continue their legacy,” Kolb said. “Continuing to remember the impact that that day had on everyone.”
The ceremony also took time to honor anyone in attendance who have served, active-duty members or any first responders.
PHOTOS: 9/11 memorial ceremony 2024
Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull and RRFR Chief James DeFillippo served as the main speakers. Both recounted their memories from that horrific day, and both spoke proudly about the country’s resilience and about the heroes.
The RRFR conducted a Striking of the Four Fives as a tribute to the firefighters who had lost their lives on 9/11.
The Striking of the Four Fives happens when a firefighter has died in the line of duty. It consists of five bell strikes, repeated in four series, with a slight pause between each series.
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Next, was the playing of "Amazing Grace." First, it was played on the bagpipes and then on the trumpet.
Pastor Matthew Caward gave a few words, and Ray Baldonado led the closing.
As people departed, the song "Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)" by Alan Jackson played.
