Oak Lawn And Hometown Plan 9/11 Remembrance Ceremonies Sunday

OAK LAWN, IL — Oak Lawn and Hometown will be hosting separate remembrance ceremonies commemorating the twenty-first anniversary of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. Both events happen Sunday.

Oak Lawn

Johnson-Phelps VFW Post 5220 have taken the reins of hosting Oak Lawn’s 9/11 remembrance ceremony, honoring the contributions of first responders and veterans who served in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

Residents can start gathering at noon Sunday, Sept. 11, by the world-class 9/11 memorial at the Oak Lawn Patriot Metra Station, 95th Street and Museum Drive. The sculpture was created by renowned artist Erik Blome. “Heralds of 9/11” includes four 22-foot-long beams from the fallen World Trade Center standing amid bronze obelisks, creating a grove effect.

Veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan will be introduced. Mayor Terry Vorderer will offer remarks, along with OLFD Chief Zack Riddle, complemented by members of Johnson-Phelps.

After the remembrance ceremony, head over to Johnson-Phelps, 9514 S. 52nd Ave., for libations. VFW members will be holding another ceremony observing National POW/MIA Day, which this year falls on Sept. 16.

Hometown

The City of Hometown is hosting a 9/11 remembrance ceremony starting at 1 p.m. Sunday in Mayors (Anderson) Park, 4401 Southwest Highway, next to city hall. The ceremony will take place at the historic Martinique gazebo and features an Army band.