Waltham first responders to hold 9/11 anniversary ceremony

Waltham first responders are holding a ceremony for the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

On Sept. 11, 2001, terrorists flew airplanes into the two World Trade Center towers in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. Passengers on board a fourth flight headed for Washington tackled the terrorists and forced the plane to crash in a field in Shanksville, Pa. 

Altogether, the attacks claimed 2,977 victims, including 412 first responders and emergency workers who perished at the World Trade Center site while trying to rescue others. Thousands more have since passed away from long-term health problems and cancers connected to the recovery efforts, as documented by the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

In Waltham, the anniversary has been observed every year in front of the Lexington Street police station, but this year the ceremony will take place at the Circle of Remembrance at 610 Main St. Waltham Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy, Fire Chief Randy Mullin, Chief of Police Kevin O’Connell and Director of Veterans Services John O’Connor will be in attendance alongside local government officials. Members of the Waltham Police Department, Waltham Fire Department, EMTs and emergency dispatchers will be there as well. 

First responders across the city will join in observing a moment of silence at 10 a.m. — the time just after the first tower of the World Trade Center collapsed, said WFD Lt. Michael Murphy. 

The ceremony will feature Waltham resident Patty Bellini singing the national anthem. Former Pentagon strategic intelligence analyst and veteran Philip Peck will speak about his career in the army. Rabbi Benjamin Chaidell of Temple Beth Israel and the Rev. James Diperri of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted will offer prayers.

The ceremony will be held Sept. 11 at the Waltham Common Circle of Remembrance at 10 a.m. The public is welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be served afterward.