Rochester, MN – On Friday morning, Rochester’s fire and police departments, together with the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, will hold a public memorial service to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The ceremony begins at 7:30 a.m. at the Broadway Plaza Hotel, located at 15 1st St. SE in downtown Rochester.
Honoring the Fallen and the First Responders
The Rochester Fire Department’s news release states the service will “honor the thousands of innocent lives lost on September 11, 2001, and pay tribute to the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of the first responders and emergency personnel who answered the call that day, including the 343 firefighters and numerous law‑enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Program highlights include a joint Honor Guard presentation, remarks from local public‑safety leaders, the ringing of a memorial bell, bagpipe music, moments of silence, and the reading of the names of victims. The event is open to all residents who wish to remember the day and support the men and women who continue to protect the community.
Memorial Stair Climb
Following the ceremony, public‑safety personnel will lead a memorial stair climb on the steps of the Broadway Plaza Hotel. The climb is intended to symbolize the ascent of the World Trade Center towers and to honor the first responders who physically climbed the towers on September 11. Participants are encouraged to join the climb as a sign of solidarity and remembrance.
Organizer John Miller, a veteran firefighter, said, “This stair climb allows us to physically embody the courage of those who rose to the challenge on that tragic day. It’s a way for our community to stand together in gratitude and prayer.”
Community Participation
Local churches, veteran groups, and civic organizations have been invited to attend and are planning to provide support, including a moment of prayer and a small reception after the climb. The event underscores Rochester’s strong tradition of faith‑centered community service and the city’s commitment to honoring national history while fostering local unity.
Families of first‑responders who served on 9/11 are also welcome to share their stories. The Rochester Police Department will have a liaison on‑site to assist anyone who may need counseling or additional resources.
Practical Details
- Date: Friday, September 11, 2026
- Time: 7:30 a.m. (service), followed by stair climb
- Location: Broadway Plaza Hotel, 15 1st St. SE, downtown Rochester
- Parking: Street parking and nearby public garages are available; carpooling is encouraged.
- Contact: Rochester Fire Department, (555) 123‑4567
All Rochester residents are encouraged to attend, reflect, and pray together as the city commemorates this solemn milestone in our nation’s history.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
