Never Forget September 11

For the 17th year, the President Ford Field Service Council, Boy Scouts of America will lead the West Michigan community in a day-long “Scout Salute” at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on this coming Tuesday, September 11, to pay respect to all those who died during the terrorist attacks in 2001. At sunrise and sunset color guards from the Grand Rapids Police and Fire Departments will raise and lower the flag outside of the museum to commemorate the opening and closing of day’s events.

In addition to various presentations and a continuous salute of the American flag from sunrise to sunset, the American Red Cross will hold a blood drive inside the Presidential Museum from 10 a.m-4p.m., and students from various school districts will participate in “Be prepared” disaster readiness activities. Other family friendly activities include a display featuring a 9/11 poster competition exhibition, an opportunity to place a flag at Ah-Nab-Awen Park to honor those who lost their lives on September 11, a visual comparison of the devastation in New York City as compared to the city of Grand Rapids, police officers with their canine partners, the Kent County Sheriff’s Department horse mounted patrol, and more.

Retired Brigadier General and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Homeland Defense Strategy, Prevention and Mission Assurance, Michael C.H. McDaniel will commemorate the anniversary of the terrorist events. At 6 p.m. Tuesday evening there will be a performance by The Salvation Army Brass Band, and McDaniel will have remarks along with Dr. John Fox, president of the Boy Scouts of America President Ford Field Service Council.