Honoring the Fallen: Gilbert’s 9/11 Memorial and Ceremony Tonight

Gilbert, Arizona, is home to a powerful 9/11 Memorial that stands as a tribute to the lives lost and the resilience of our nation in the face of tragedy. Situated at the 9/11 Memorial Plaza on 50 E. Civic Center Drive, this outdoor memorial offers a place of reflection and remembrance, welcoming visitors any time, day or night.

The centerpiece of Gilbert’s 9/11 Memorial is an 8-foot steel girder beam that once supported the North Tower of the World Trade Center. This beam now rests on a pentagon-shaped base and is angled thoughtfully so even the youngest visitors can reach up to touch this tangible piece of history. Surrounding the beam are four granite walls engraved with the names of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and nearby benches invite visitors to sit, pause, and reflect on the day’s profound impact.

The journey of the beam to Gilbert was a heartfelt endeavor led by former Gilbert Fire Chief Collin DeWitt and then-Assistant Fire Chief Jim Jobusch. In 2011, the pair traveled to New York City to bring the beam to Arizona, honoring it with the reverence of a fallen soldier throughout its journey. As it traveled through Gilbert, residents were given the opportunity to connect with this piece of history, fostering a deep sense of community and shared memory.

Gilbert’s 9/11 Memorial was unveiled during the town’s 10th anniversary ceremony in 2011, and it has since become a focal point for annual commemorations. This year, the Town of Gilbert invites residents to attend the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony, beginning at 6:30 PM on Wednesday, September 11th. Hosted by Gilbert Fire and Rescue and the Gilbert Police Department, the ceremony will honor the lives lost and the heroic first responders who answered the call on that fateful day.

Following the ceremony, a Tribute in Light will illuminate the night sky from 7:30 to 10:30 PM, with two beams of light symbolizing the fallen twin towers of the World Trade Center. In the spirit of remembrance and service, Gilbert residents are also encouraged to participate in the National Day of Service by engaging in local volunteer opportunities. Those looking to continue their acts of service can join the community’s next volunteer event on Saturday, September 14th, at 7:30 AM.