Governor Gianforte Joins Montanans to Remember 9/11

Marks 25th anniversary of September 11 terrorist attacks

Governor's Office

BOZEMAN, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte today joined veterans, first responders, law enforcement officers, and community members to remember the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and mark the 25th anniversary of that tragic day.

"Twenty-five years ago, our nation was forever changed. Nearly 3,000 innocent Americans were taken from us, and countless families were forever impacted," Gov. Gianforte said. "September 11 was not so long ago, but with each passing year, we must never forget. We have a responsibility to remember those we lost, honor the heroes who answered the call, and make sure the next generation understands what happened that day."

Gov. Gianforte speaking during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Bozeman

Joining American Legion Post 14, the Bozeman Safety Center, police officers, firefighters, veterans, and members of the community, the governor participated in a remembrance ceremony honoring the victims of the attacks and the first responders who rushed toward danger to save others.

"For veterans, a day like today carries a special weight. We understand that service comes with sacrifice, and we know the importance of standing beside those who put on a uniform and answer the call," said Len Albright, First Vice Commander of American Legion Post 14. "As veterans, it is an honor to gather with our first responders and our community each year and pay tribute to all those whose lives and service were forever shaped by September 11."

Reflecting on the courage and unity Americans demonstrated in the hours, days, and weeks following September 11, the governor encouraged Montanans to carry that same spirit of service forward.

"On one of our nation's darkest days, we saw the very best of America. First responders ran toward danger, neighbors helped neighbors, and Americans from every walk of life came together," Gov. Gianforte said. "Twenty-five years later, we honor those we lost by remembering their lives, honoring the sacrifices made that day and in the years that followed, and carrying forward the spirit that united our country."

The governor thanked American Legion Post 14 and the Bozeman Safety Center for bringing veterans, first responders, and members of the community together to remember and honor the lives lost on September 11.

The governor ordered all flags in the State of Montana to be flown at half-staff today from sunrise until sunset and asked all Montanans to observe a statewide moment of silence at 6:46 a.m. MDT to remember the moment the first plane struck the World Trade Center and to honor the innocent lives lost that day.

A video recording of the ceremony can be viewed here.

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