Twenty years later: 9/11 remembered

September 17, 2021 | By Waterbury Roundabout

Waterbury Fire Department flies its large American flag above Main Street on Sept. 11. Photo by Lisa Scagliotti

Last Saturday marked the 20 years since the terrorist attacks on the United States on Sept. 11, 2001.

In Waterbury, the somber anniversary was observed by the Waterbury Fire Department where a ladder truck flew a giant American flag over South Main Street all day. Inside the station, firefighters held their annual Sept. 11 blood drive with the American Red Cross. Fire Chief Gary Dillon said the effort exceeded its goal and collected 43 units of blood.

At 6 p.m., members of the American Legion Post 59 held a short ceremony on Stowe Street to commemorate the occasion and honor members of the U.S. military for whom Sept. 11 motivated their service. About 40 people gathered in the street which was closed for the arts festival held earlier in the day. They lit and held candles during remarks by legion leaders.

American Legion Post 59 Chaplain Alonzo Perry (at the podium) speaks at the Sept. 11 anniversary service. Behind him to the right is Post Commander Wayne Goulet. Photo by Gordon Miller

About 40 people attend the service on Stowe Street. Photo by Gordon Miller

Attendees hold lighted candles in remembrance of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the United States and of those who have served in the military since. Photo by Gordon Miller