Niles Pays Tribute to Victims of 9/11

More than 75 Niles residents and civic servants joined the country in a moment of silence at noon Sunday at the Niles Public Library in honor of fallen victims of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

Library staff hosted village officials, police officers, firefighters and residents in a solemn but hopeful remembrance of the events 10 years ago with an honor color guard, statements from civic officials and a musical tribute.

Earlier:

“On Sept. 11, the library stood open so we could be that symbol of freedom,” Library Director Linda Weiss said. “Libraries represent freedom of expression, celebration of diversity, a playing field that is level and a preservation of history for the future.”

In the very same room where library staff met in 2001 for a meeting which was later interrupted by the hijacked planes, Niles officials and residents watched taped news coverage and commemorated the lives lost.

Remembering those who died

“We cannot forget the hundreds of first responders, police and firefighters who risked their own lives to save others,” Police Chief Dean Strzelecki said. “And we, by remembering this day, must send a message that it will never be tolerated.”

Fire Chief Steve Borkowski said the 343 firefighters and 72 police officers killed at the Twin Towers were probably confident in their skills and determined to complete their goal of rescuing people and extinguishing fire, with courage. 

“One of the goals of the terrorists was to do damage to U.S. economics, and to strike fear into the American people,” said Borkowski. “The attacks did do damage to our economy. They did instill fear in American people throughout the country. What the terrorists didn’t count on was the American spirit and determination of the American people. There were many heroic acts that day of many people of all walks of life.”

Transforming 9/11 into a day of hope

Library officials raised a special 9/11 flag to half staff in honor of those who died helping perfect strangers, eyeing to transform the day into a day of hope and service.

“When we think about the future in our communities and in our lives, we get to look forward,” Weiss said. “I can’t see a better place to spend together in tribute to that day. Libraries just exist and we're open and free.”

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