Orland Park To Honor Lives Lost On 9/11 For 20th Anniversary

ORLAND PARK, IL — The Village of Orland Park is scheduled to hold a commemorative ceremony on the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks at the Ara Pace Memorial. The event will feature tributes from community members, according to a news release from the village.

The anniversary event will begin at 10 a.m., at the memorial — located at 14700 Ravinia Ave., Orland Park. The program will remember the 2,996 victims of the attacks.

“We invite everyone to join us in remembrance of the tragic loss our nation suffered 20 years ago,” said Orland Park Mayor Keith Pekau.

According to the release, Pekau will be the program emcee and will address those in attendance prior to the posting of colors by Orland Fire Protection District, Orland Park Police, American Legion Orland Memorial Post 111 and Orland-Palos Reber-Tesmond VFW Memorial Post 2604.

Pastor Don Borling of All Saints Lutheran Church in Orland Park will offer the ceremony’s invocation, the release states. Chief Michael Schofield and Dave Nagel of Orland Fire Protection District will share personal reflections on the tragedy with a bell ringing, and Orland Park Police Chief Joseph Mitchell will offer a message to those in attendance, according to the release.

Presentations will also be given by military as well as civilian representatives of the community, the release states.

"I am honored to stand with the brave men and women who continue to serve and protect our community every day," Pekau said. "Especially on a day such as this one, be sure to thank a first responder."