Fort Worth once again placed its love for country and community front and center as the city marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The ceremony, organized by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the city, took place Friday morning on the steps of City Hall and drew firefighters, police officers, city staff and dozens of volunteers.
Local heroes remember the day that changed a nation
Retired Detective Winky Hix, who was a 37‑year‑old rookie officer when the towers fell, recalled the shock of watching the planes on television and the city’s swift shift to 12‑hour police rotations. “What changed me was where I live, in this city and the people around you, and just everybody coming together, and the hope that feeling will remain moving forward,” Hix said.
Hix now volunteers for Tunnel to Towers, a nonprofit that supports Gold Star families and the children of fallen first responders. The organization supplied the collage of photographs that Mayor Mattie Parker displayed during the ceremony.
Mayor and police chief stress American values
Mayor Parker addressed the crowd, urging everyone to “hold hands and look forward together, even when we disagree.” She framed the remembrance as a call to live out the core American principles of liberty, faith and family that Fort Worth cherishes.
Police Chief Eddie García added that each September 11 serves as a reminder of first‑responders’ unwavering commitment to protect strangers. “We remember the innocent who began an ordinary day and never made it home,” he said. “Their lives were taken far too soon, but their stories, their families, and the impact they left behind will never be forgotten.”
Community members share personal reflections
David Sheppard, 62, walked the memorial path and spoke of a rare unity he felt that day. “We were not multiple races, we were not various political parties. We were Americans,” he said, underscoring the shared love for country that still binds the nation.
The ceremony included a moment of silence timed to the exact moments the planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Flight 93, followed by a solemn bell toll and a flyover that reminded onlookers of the bravery of the armed forces.
Volunteerism and faith in action
Beyond the formal program, volunteers organized food drives for New York first responders and continue to support families of those who gave their lives. The event highlighted how Fort Worth’s Christian‑rooted values of service and sacrifice remain alive in everyday actions.
As the city looks ahead, organizers hope the spirit of togetherness will inspire future generations to stand firm for liberty, family and faith—principles that have guided Fort Worth through every challenge.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
