Rock Island Arsenal will host two events to commemorate the 21st anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001. Both events will be held on Friday, Sept. 9, and are open to the public. They include:
- A flag walk will begin at 6:30 a.m., with marchers assembling at 6 a.m. at Memorial Field on RIA. Marchers will carry American flags on a 2.5-mile course that will end at the 9/11 Memorial, across from Memorial Field. The flags, which represent the lives lost on September 11, 2001, will then be placed in a field adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial.
- A remembrance ceremony will be at 10:30 a.m. at the 9/11 Memorial. The ceremony will honor both those who died in the terrorist attacks 21 years ago, and those who have subsequently made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the Global War on Terrorism.
Maj. Gen. Mark C. Jackson, deputy commanding general for operations, Army National Guard, First United States Army, will be the guest speaker at the ceremony. The event will also feature a wreath laying ceremony, a 21-gun salute, a moment of silence, and the playing of taps.
Members of the public who wish to participate in the flag walk or attend the ceremony should enter the arsenal via the Moline Gate and be prepared to show valid identification.
