"Our debt of gratitude to them is immense:" 9/11 remembrance ceremony held at War Memorial

MILWAUKEE – Across Wisconsin and here in Milwaukee, people paused to remember the 9/11 attacks.

9/11 Memorial in Milwaukee

Mayor Tom Barrett and Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele invited the public to attend a memorial ceremony in remembrance of 9/11 on Friday, September 11th at the War Memorial Center.

The mood was somber as the crowd remembered the 9/11 attacks. Wreaths symbolize the 2,977 people killed. Hundreds were first responders who rushed into harms way.

"Our debt of gratitude to them is immense.  What they did that day was unbelievable, it was unbelievable bravery and patriotism," said Mayor Tom Barrett.

But solemness is matched with pride and resilience.

"Think about the tragedies, but you also think that when America gets kicked down, she gets right back up and doesn't say no," said Medal of Honor recipient Gary Wetzel.

The people at this ceremony say the most important thing is to never forget what happened.

"We never forget, we never forget," said Ed Panelli, his brother-in-law died on 9/11.

Ed Panelli of Wauwatosa wears a shirt in memory of his brother-in-law, a New York City Fire Lieutenant.

"We are one of the lucky families that Billy's remains were recovered after a week," said Panelli.

Lt. William McGinn

He was killed as the first tower collapsed.

"Lt. William McGinn gave his life helping lead the most successful rescue operation in New York City history," said Panelli.

Innocent lives lost remembered with one final act, the tolling of the USS Milwaukee Bell.

This is one of several 9/11 ceremonies that occurred in our area. On Friday night, the Milwaukee Fire Department will hold a "Standing for the Fallen" event with other fire and police departments.