Community Comes Together in Aiken for Annual 9/11 Memorial Walk
On a lovely evening with clear skies and temperatures hovering around 58°F, residents of Aiken gathered at the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center on September 7. The atmosphere was both solemn and uplifting as community members, along with Aiken County volunteer firefighters from various departments, participated in the annual 9/11 and Local Heroes Memorial Walk.
Honoring Sacrifices
The event aimed to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001, a day that forever changed the course of American history. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost when terrorists hijacked four jetliners, targeting the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania. It was also an opportunity to recognize the local heroes who have passed while serving the community.
As participants prepared to take their steps in memory of the fallen, Johan Zamoscianyk, a former New York City firefighter and first responder on that fateful day, stood out with his heartfelt presence. Holding his wife’s hand, he shared, “I walk to remember and to honor my friends that were lost on 9/11, as well as the 365 firemen who have been lost since then.” Zamoscianyk had a front-row seat to the tragic events and lost many colleagues in the collapse of the Twin Towers.
A Unified Walk
Firefighters from several local departments, including Aiken Department of Public Safety, Beech Island, Jackson, and others, donned their fire gear to march together. With each step, they symbolized support not just for each other, but for all those who serve to protect and save lives. Keaton Sizemore, president of the Aiken County Firefighters Association, emphasized the importance of remembering local heroes. “Here in Aiken County, we wanted to honor heroes who have passed while serving,” he remarked.
The community came together for the Pledge of Allegiance, displaying a sense of unity and patriotism. Participants of all ages, including young children, joined the walk. It was a touching sight to see families like the La Pans – Logan, Julian, Lexi, Samuel Ashley, and Adrian – taking part to honor local and fallen heroes.
The Purpose Behind the Event
It wasn’t just a day of remembrance but also one of action. Proceeds from the walk will benefit the Aiken County Firefighters Association, which works tirelessly to provide training, equipment, and support for local volunteer departments. This year, funds will also go to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, a charity founded to assist families of first responders who have passed away, as well as provide smart homes for severely injured veterans.
Nicole Streeter, a former police officer from Suffolk County, New York, echoed the sentiment of remembrance, sharing that she was also in New York during 9/11. She recalled the weight of that day and expressed the importance of events like this, saying, “I remember 9/11 like it was yesterday.”
Community Support and Reflection
Community members like DeAnna Tock attended to support their loved ones in the fire department, while others, such as Michelle Ghant from the 50 Plus Singles group, came out of sheer respect and honor for those who serve. Ghant’s personal connection to the cause runs deep, as her late husband retired from the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office. “This is always near and dear to my heart—anything I can do to support first responders,” she said.
Adrian La Pan, a volunteer firefighter, mentioned he not only came to show support but also to teach his children about the significance of 9/11. “It’s crucial to keep the memory alive and understand the sacrifices made by so many,” he explained.
Join the Journey of Remembrance
Events like this provide a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders and the importance of community. If you’re looking to support the cause, donations can be made through the Aiken County Firefighters Association’s website and their social media channels. Together, we can ensure that the memory of these heroes lives on and that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
