‘Never Forget’: Waltham marks 25th anniversary of 9/11 

Waltham commemorated the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks with a morning remembrance on the Waltham Common, honoring those who lost their lives and the heroes who responded.

A crowd of more than 100 joined city leaders at the Circle of Remembrance at 610 Main St. to reaffirm a commitment to never forget the victims of the attacks. 

Waltham Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy, Fire Chief Randy Mullin, Fire Capt. John Bonadio, Police Chief Kevin O’Connell and Director of Veterans’ Services John O’Connor were in attendance alongside local government officials. Members of the Waltham Police and Fire departments, EMTs and emergency dispatchers were also present.

Guest speaker Lt. Col. Philip Peck, a U.S. Army veteran and former Pentagon strategic intelligence analyst, spoke on his military career, which involved counterterrorism aspects of homeland security, and the need to carry forward the spirit of service and community that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks. “We are all special,” he said. “Do not let these people have died in vain. Use this gift to make a difference every single day.”

The ceremony also featured Waltham resident Patty Bellini, who sang the national anthem. Rabbi Benjamin Chaidell of Temple Beth Israel and the Rev. James DiPerri of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted were in attendance and offered opening and closing prayers.