2021 Marks 20th Anniversary of 9/11

by Rebecka Hoyt, Editor & Photographer

7:00pm Saturday, September 11, 2021 at the Common in downtown Buchanan was the 20th anniversary of 9/11 for the Patriot Day service. This was put on by BAMA (Buchanan Area Ministerial Association), American Legion Post 51 and the Buchanan CIty Police and Fire Chaplains. Speakers consisted of: Mayor Sean Denison, Sgt. Harvey Burnett, the American Legion Post 51 posting the colors, American Heritage Girls and the Boy Scouts leading the Pledge of Allegiance; Pastor David Mitchell, Ellen Berline – pastor of First United Methodist Church for a prayer on ending violence and war, bodies that need healing of scars from that day.

The M-Vet riders were there for support. Mary Judanich, a speaker from Senator Debbie Stabenow’s office read her letter to the crowd and said “To put politics aside.” Chairman of the Board of Commission, Mac Elliott gave a timeline of the 9/11 affected flights. He also said, “Freedom is not free by the thirteen murdered in Afghanistan – we need God in this country, aspire to become stronger and never forget.” Chuck Height, Berrien County Undersheriff talked about former President Bush giving remarks at Shanksville, PA. Chuck also read a poem called “The Towers.”

Phyllis Davis, a representative of the Blue Star Mothers Chapter 193 recognized the first responders, clergy service men and women and others who served those on that day and afterwards. Also she stated how they send care packages and reminded us to say “Thank you when you see one of these people.” Sgt. Harvey Burnett stated about “Reflecting on the day of those events, but also joining together all Americans regardless of ethnicity, religious beliefs, political status, etc…  to comfort each other, to care for each other, defend each other and love one another.” 

The Buchanan Bands played the armed service songs. Pastor David Mitchell stated that “We are more than people thrown together by having the joy of strength and unity. And he wanted to thank the Lord for being able to do this Patriot Day service for the last 20 years.”

“Salute those victims of 9/11,” said Larry Money with the American Legion, with a 21 gun salute. Buchanan High School Senior Band Member, Garett Brackett played Taps.