Elmhurst Remembers

Hundreds of people turned out Sunday to honor the memory of those who died on Sept. 11, 2001, and to pay tribute to the first responders who continue to keep Americans safe.

The ceremony at Spring Road and the Prairie Path was a re-dedication of the , and featured readings by community members, including a flight attendant, firefighter, police officer and others.

Flight attendant K. B. Grasse spoke about the security procedures in place since 9/11.

"Every time we board an aircraft, we honor our fallen flying partners from United flights 175 and 93, and American flights 11 and 77, today, tomorrow and always," she said.

Firefighter Brandon Rigert said he was moved as a 14-year-old by the events of 9/11 to give his life to fire service.

"Ten years later, I'm honored and humbled to be standing here representing that fraternity today," he said.

Police Det. Leonard Kolpak recalled the police officers who died that day.

"The 23 New York City police officers who gave their lives that day did so doing what every police officer is compelled to do: spring into action to keep people safe," he said.

Mayor Pete DiCianni reminded the crowd that 9/11 was the largest attack on American soil, "even larger than Pearl harbor," he said.

"When people want to criticize a police or firefighter—and my family is loaded with them—I'll always defend them. Because when the chips are down, those men and women are here to save our lives," he said.

He mentioned Elmhurst resident and son of former Alderman Jan Vanek and the late Frank Vanek, who was killed in Iraq when he was 22 years old.

"That will affect us forever," DiCianni said.

"I pray for the federal, state and local leaders," DiCianni said. "You would not believe what they have to deal with on a day-to-day basis."

Local police officers in attendance received a round of applause from the crowd.

The event also included performances from the Chorus of DuPage, York High School Band members and bagpiper Brian Costello, as well as a prayer from Brig. Gen. John Wendel.