Utah communities gather in memory of lives lost on 9/11

SALT LAKE CITY — As America recognizes the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on 9/11, organizations across Utah are hosting events in memory of those who lost their lives.

9/11 Patriotic Program, Vineyard

On Sept. 11, a patriotic program, concert, and drone show will be held at Vineyard Grove Park at 7 p.m.

“This event aims to commemorate the legacy of 9/11, honor those who were lost, and celebrate the resilience and unity of our community,” a release states.

The event will start with a flag ceremony, followed by a rendition of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ performed by the Mountain View Choir. Several speakers, including Vineyard Mayor Julie Fullmer, will speak to the public about honoring those lost, and the vital role of first responders.

The Utah-based band Tri-Chevys will perform after the formal program. The drone show is scheduled from 9 p.m. until 9:15 p.m.

This event is free and open to the community.

Salt Lake City 9/11 Heroes Run

On Saturday, Sept. 7, the Salt Lake City 9/11 Heroes Run race will take place, starting at 9 a.m.

“The annual race series unites the nation to remember the lives lost on September 11th, and in the wars since, while honoring veterans military service members, and first responders who serve our country and our communities,” an event press release states.

The race will take place in more than 90 locations, both in-person and virtually. Communities can come together to run or walk to “honor the fallen and carry on the legacies of character, leadership, and service that they left behind,” the release states. “At its heart, the 9/11 Heroes Run is a personal commitment to never forget the heroes of that day.”

Locally, the event will take place at East River Front Park in South Jordan.

Walk-up registration is available, or participants can click here to register.

Granite 9/11 Day of Service

On Saturday, Sept. 7, the Granite Education Foundation will host volunteers to build student kits at their Day of Service event.

One-hour volunteer slots start at 8 a.m., and will continue throughout the early afternoon. Volunteers can sign up by clicking here. The foundation is also accepting donations of new school supplies to support the school district’s back-to-school driver.

47% of students in Granite School District qualify for free or reduced lunch, and delivered over 70,000 students weekend meal kits and 4,000 hygiene kits, according to a release.

“The mission of Granite Education Foundation is to reduce barriers to learning and increase access to opportunities for students and educators in the Granite School District.”

The event will be held at the Granite Education Foundation Donation Center in Salt Lake City.

9/11 Tower Stair Challenge

On Sept. 11, the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, along with local law enforcement, will be participating in a Tower Stair Challenge.

2,071 steps will represent the 110 floors in each of the Twin Towers, honoring those who lost their lives, as well as the first responders and military “who protected us from foreign and domestic threats.”

The Tower Stair Challenge will be held at the America First Field, beginning at 8 a.m.

Free car wash honoring first responders

To show gratitude, all Tagg-N-Go Car Wash businesses are offering free car washes on Sept. 11 for all first responders.

All police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians are eligible.

“We deeply appreciate the incredible work done by first responders every day to keep our communities safe and strong,” a release said. “Their courage and commitment are the foundation of our communities, and it is our privilege to give back in a small way.”

To find a location near you, click here.