A poignant piece of American history made its way to Texarkana as part of the Tunnels to Towers Steel Across America Tour. A steel beam from the World Trade Center is on display outside the federal building in downtown Texarkana, serving as a solemn reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Honoring the Heroes

The 9/11 Never Forget Mobile Exhibit accompanies the steel beam, providing visitors with an immersive experience that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of first responders and victims. New York City firefighter Kevin Calhoun, who was present at ground zero when the second tower fell, shared his experiences with local firefighters, including Hooks Fire Department Capt. Hadyn Knight, Cass County Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief David Jackson, and Hooks Fire Department Capt. Ethan Phillips.

Calhoun’s firsthand account of the events on that fateful day offers a powerful connection to history, reminding visitors of the resilience and courage displayed by emergency personnel during the attacks.

Community Engagement

The exhibit drew local residents, including Jasper Cooper, Cathy McBroom, and 12-year-old Gabriel Cooper, who took the opportunity to pose for a picture in front of the steel beam. This moment of reflection allowed families to engage with history and honor the memory of those who lost their lives.

The Tunnels to Towers Foundation, which organized the tour, aims to educate communities across the nation about the impact of 9/11 and to ensure that the heroism of that day is never forgotten. The exhibit’s stop in Texarkana highlights the importance of remembering and learning from past events to foster a sense of unity and resilience in communities.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.