Lake Havasu Honors Those Who Gave Their Lives on September 11, 2001

By Grace Usher

Tuesday, Sept. 11, first responders, city officials, veterans and citizens gathered at London Bridge Beach to remember those affected by the tragedy of the World Trade Center attack 17 years ago.

The ceremony began with an opening by Bud Watts followed by prayer led by Sisto Sandoval.

Veteran Sisto Sandovol salutes the Colors during the 9/11 ceremony at London Bridge Beach. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Organizations that were involved in the presenting of colors included the Marine Corps League, The VFW, American Legion, LHFD, and LHPD. The POW/MIA, and American Flag were raised by Rosamond Naylor and Ray Clodi.

The Native Air Service flew over the event as the Thunderbolt Middle School teacher, Jeff Young rendered the National Anthem. The Anthem was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by The Lake Havasu City Military Moms.

Thunderbolt Middle School students place their hands on hearts during the National Anthem. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

The Bell Ceremony was provided by Jeff Haran, Division Fire Chief, and Mark Martz, Engineer. A bagpipe performance of “Amazing Grace” was played by Firefighter, Justin Bacon.

Members of the Marine Corps League performed the Flag Folding, and the Gold Star Moms placed the wreath at the ceremony grounds.

Erin O’Callaghan/RiverScene

Honored Guest Speakers of the event were current Mayor Mark Nexsen and Veterans Court Judge Mitchell Kalauli.

As the ceremony came to an end, Thunderbolt Middle School Choir presented “Proud to be an American.”

The ceremony ended with a rifle salute and performance of “Taps.”

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

As the first responders of the tragic event are honored, Lake Havasu First Responders still feel the pain of the loss.

Fire Chief, Brian Davis, reminisces the fateful year and how it still affects him today:

“I think over time not all wounds heal. It takes time. This is a very tough day for me. I have a piece of the trade center. I attended a funeral in November 2001 and I visited the Trade Center site. I have a prayer card on my desk and a piece of the trade center and it is there to remind me. It’s a tough day.”