News Summary
Raleigh observed Patriot Day, honoring the 24th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The day featured memorials and acts of service across the city, where over 50 volunteers gathered to participate in various activities at the Raleigh National Cemetery, emphasizing community solidarity and remembrance. Personal stories shared by volunteers highlighted the significance of unity in honoring both victims and first responders. The observances reaffirmed the enduring values of resilience and patriotism in the face of tragedy.
Raleigh, North Carolina — Community Comes Together to Mark 24th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks
Raleigh observed Patriot Day on September 11, honoring the 24th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The day serves as a significant reminder of the nearly 3,000 lives lost during that tragic event, prompting memorials, ceremonies, and acts of service across the city and surrounding areas.
Local Memorial Events Focus on Service and Remembrance
More than 50 volunteers gathered at the Raleigh National Cemetery to participate in the Carry the Load National Day of Service & Remembrance. This event aims to acknowledge the sacrifices of military personnel and first responders who lost their lives in connection with the attacks. Participants engaged in various activities designed to honor their memory and demonstrate community solidarity.
Personal Stories Highlight the Significance of the Day
Among the volunteers was Carlos Santiago, who shared that he was living in Manhattan during the attacks and had a direct view of the twin towers. His involvement reflects a personal connection, as he remembers a friend lost that day. Santiago emphasized the importance of unity, noting that despite differing beliefs, volunteers worked together towards a common goal of remembrance.
Other community members attended the events to honor their loved ones. Angelia Fajri was present to pay tribute to her son Justin, who decided to join the military after being inspired by the events of 9/11. Her story underscores how the tragedy influenced individual lives and generations to serve and protect.
Ceremonies and Activities Across Central North Carolina
Throughout the region, various activities took place to commemorate the victims and reflect on the sacrifices made. One of the highlights was the annual memorial Stair Climb at Kenan Stadium, where hundreds of participants ascended 2,071 stairs, symbolizing the efforts of first responders on that day. This physical challenge serves as both a tribute and a reminder of emergency personnel’s bravery.
Community Reflections and Personal Accounts
Several individuals shared poignant recollections of the events. Ricky Irby from the Chapel Hill Fire Department expressed vivid memories of the attacks and their aftermath, emphasizing the sacrifices made by first responders during those critical moments. Lorraine Meehan, a survivor who worked near the World Trade Center, spoke about the unity that emerged nationally post-9/11 and the importance of continuing to honor that collective strength.
In addition, Chrissie Abbott shared her personal connection to the tragedy, citing her niece was among the victims aboard Flight 93. Her participation in the remembrances underscores the multifaceted impact of the attacks on individual families and communities.
Broader Commemorations Across North Carolina
Beyond Raleigh, memorial events were held in several other locations, including Knightdale, Rolesville, Fort Bragg, and Apex. These gatherings served to honor victims, express gratitude for emergency responders, and reinforce the importance of patriotism and service across the state.
Conclusion
The observances across Raleigh and surrounding areas on Patriot Day exemplify a community’s commitment to remembering a pivotal moment in history. Through ceremonies, personal stories, and acts of service, residents continue to honor those who lost their lives and reaffirm the enduring values of unity, resilience, and remembrance.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mary Ann Dusenbury Passes Away at 74 in Sanford, NC
Obituary of Doris Keith Stanley
Construction of New Clinical Decision Unit Begins at Maui Memorial Medical Center
White House Suspends School Field Trip Program Amid Renovations
Discover the Best Golf Courses in Central Minnesota
Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: 9/11 Patriot Day Cleaning Headstones
- Wikipedia: September 11 Attacks
- ABC11: 9/11 Events in North Carolina
- Google Search: 9/11 Memorials
- Spectrum Local News: Nash Early College High School News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: 9/11 Attacks
- Newsweek: Anti-Trump Protest Locations
- Google News: 9/11 Patriot Day

Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.