9/11 remembrance ceremony held at Gardens at Westlake

Residents, their families and community members attended the Tenth Anniversary of 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Gardens of Westlake on Sept. 9.

The morning event began with an opening prayer and remarks by Rev. John Butchko from Westlake United Methodist Church. A Navy Junior ROTC unit from James Ford Rhodes High School then led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a flag presentation and exhibition drill.

The featured guest speaker was Captain Guy Turner from the Westlake Police Dept., who spoke about the many changes in safety factors and the precautions and interventions in place today.

Gardens’ Executive Director Christina Melaragno offered an emotional tribute to those who died in the terrorist attacks, but found hope in the way the experience “unified our strong, proud nation.” She added: “What was meant to drive us apart, has really drawn us together.”

The Westlake High School Choir, directed by Jennifer Butler, closed the ceremony with a medley of patriotic songs.