9/11 a time to remember and learn from history
By Ginna Young
It’s been two decades since the terrorist attacks on American soil, that resulted in the collapse of the Twin Towers in New York, an explosion at the Pentagon and the airplane crash of what is known as the Hero Flight.
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the events known simply as 9/11, Cadott will host a ceremony Saturday, Sept. 11, at the Cadott Truck Stop (River Country Plaza). The service begins at 7:46 a.m., with the ringing of the Freedom Bell, tolling when the first plane hit one of the Twin Towers.
The program will then begin at 8 a.m., emceed by Cadott American Legion Commander Rick VanderMolen, with special speaker Capt. Jim Anderson, a pilot with United Airlines, addressing the crowd. Anderson’s friend was the pilot of one of the planes that struck a tower, making the presentation all the more personal for him.
During the program, all area fire, ambulance and police departments are invited to the proceedings, with organizers requesting an RSVP ahead of time, so the EMS can be offi cially recognized.
“We’re also going to hand out EMS flags to any municipalities who show up,” said Kathy VanderMolen, adjutant for the Cadott American Legion.
To be recognized, EMS personnel can contact Larry Buttke, at 715-289-4873.
As ceremonies take place across the nation in remembrance of those who lost their lives that fateful day, Cadott will do its best to pay tribute to the fallen. K. VanderMolen, who has traveled to Ground Zero in New York, says it hits hard when you stand in the place where the Twin Towers once presided.
“It’s very sombering,” she said.
Afterward, in recognition of the 100th year of the Cadott American Legion and Cadott Legion Auxiliary, an open house takes place, beginning at 11 a.m., with a free brat meal until gone (150 meals planned). The open house will offer the public a chance to tour the Legion hall, learn about its history and celebrates Henry Svetlik, whom the Legion is named after.
“Him and his brother both were killed in World War I,” said K. VanderMolen. “They’re both buried in France, I believe.”
