Missoula 9/11 20th Anniversary Event Open to the Public

Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the attacks of 9/11/2001 and many of us remember exactly where we were when we realized what was happening. But for about one-third of Americans, they were either not born yet, or too young to understand. I was reading an article about the anniversary and a professor who teaches a course on 9/11 was saying it's weird to be the only person in the room who remembers the events of that tragic day, and how it unfolded.

Missoula is pretty hyped for Saturday's Griz game, especially after the win against the Huskies, and it's our home opener. With that said, the University of Montana didn't want the game to overshadow the importance of the somber day, and President Seth Bodnar sent out an email regarding an anniversary event taking place several hours prior to the game.

The University will hold a short ceremony on Saturday at the Fallen Soldiers Memorial starting at 2 p.m. The event is open to the public and all attendees are welcome to bring flowers and other items of support for the 43 young Montanans who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. 

In his email, President Bodnar extended a special thank you to the UM ROTC Color Guard, UM student Cooper Jurasin and the UM VETS Office for their participation and hard work in organizing this important event. He added, "This anniversary brings many feelings and emotions for those of us who were impacted by the actions of that day, and I am grateful for the continued support the UM Family shows each other during times of difficulty and hardship. 

Thank you to the veterans and first responders who continue to serve our campus and community. Words cannot express the gratitude we all share for your selfless service and your willingness to help those in need."