Contributed photo
Contributed photo
Issued the following announcement on Sept. 7
On the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the Exchange Club of Naperville is once again hosting the Sept. 11 remembrance at the Cmdr. Dan Shanower Memorial outside of the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St.
This event pays tribute to Naval Cmdr. Dan Shanower, a Naperville native who died in the attack on the Pentagon, as well as all victims of the Sept. 11 attacks. The event provides an opportunity to reflect on and remember this pivotal moment in our country’s history, with the ceremony beginning at 8:46 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 11 to coincide with the moment in Eastern time when American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. Pre-event music begins at 8:30 a.m. courtesy of the Naperville Municipal Band and Naperville Men’s Glee Club. In the event of rain, the ceremony will take place inside Council Chambers of the Municipal Center.
This year’s featured speakers include Naperville Interim Police Chief Jason Arres, Naperville Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis and special guest speaker José Santiago, retired Fire Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department. Santiago joined the Chicago Fire Department in 1979, spending a total of 39 years with the department. Santiago served in the United States Marine Corp for over 31 years, both in active duty and the Reserves, working his way through the ranks from Private to Commanding Officer of H&S Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division. Santiago served in Operations Frequent Wind (RVN) Desert Shield and Desert Storm (SWA).
In advance of the formal Sept. 11 remembrance, twin beams of light representing the Twin Towers will shine during the evening hours of Sept. 9 and 10 courtesy of search lights used in Europe during World War II.
For more information on the Exchange Club, visit www.exchangeclub.org. For more information on the City of Naperville, visit www.naperville.il.us.
NOTE: All media inquiries for this event should be directed to Marty Walker with the Exchange Club of Naperville at (630) 772-7851.
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