Twenty years later, and a day that still remains very vivid in many Americans mind’s- 9/11/2001.
In Manhattan, the Flint Hills Volunteer Center continues to honor that day, and encourages participation from the community to remember those who fell during the terrorist attacks. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the event that forever changed America. Lori Bishop, Volunteer Center Executive Director, tells KMAN more of the importance behind the upcoming “Day of Remembrance” event.
“This is a time that we come together as a community, in light of everything that is going on,” Bishop says. “Let’s be there and thank those who serve and protect us everyday.”
Bishop adds that that the 9/11 attacks actually hit close to home, as there are several local people who were actually a part of what transpired at the World Trade Center and it’s time to honor them as well.
She tells KMAN the Day of Remembrance event will take place on Friday, September 10 and will begin in the morning with an invite-only heroes breakfast. Throughout the day, other events such as the honor walk, Wall of Gratitude, and a Rock Hunt will take place. She says several food trucks will be on site, as well as a chance for kids to enjoy first responder vehicles.
“Riley County Police Department has their vehicles, we actually have the bomb squad vehicle there with the K-9 unit. We have Riley County Fire District Number One. We have the police department.”
Bishop says its a great chance for kids to engage with the first responders and learn more about their responsibilities
She adds that the kids and parents are also invited to take part in the rock hunt, sponsored by the Flint Hills Veterans Coalition.
“Our volunteers got together and painted these absolutely amazing rocks that reflect first responders, ground zero, or the Twin Towers. Something reflective of 9/11.”
Bishop says along with the many smaller rocks, they also hid one big rock for community members to seek out.
“The clues can be picked up at the Flint Hills Volunteer Center’s booth near the Pavilion in City Park.”
She adds that whoever finds the big rock can return it to the volunteer center booth at the park and receive a prize.
The rock hunt will be one of many events happening for Family Night in the city park. and following the family night, will be the Day of Remembrance Ceremony. The ceremony will take place at the Larry Norvell Band Shell and feature guest speaker, Lt. Col. Robert Darling, who served as a Marine for over 20 years and was in the White House bunker that fateful day.
“He’s an author, he wrote a book Twenty-Four Hours in the Bunker. He’s going to bring some amazing things,” Bishop adds. “He’s a Marine Corp and so he will tell us a lot about what happened and what transpired after that event and moving forward.”
The Day of Remembrance event will take place on Friday at City Park. Family Night events will kick off at 5 p.m. and the ceremony begins at 7 p.m.
To learn more, visit flinthillsvolunteercenter.com.
