MSJC ceremony commemorates 9/11

Mayor Bill Zimmerman helps unveil a piece of the World Trade Center Towers. (Photos courtesy of MSJC)

Press release from Mt. San Jacinto College:

Mt. San Jacinto College hosted the 12th Annual 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony on Monday. Veterans, first responders, MSJC students and employees, and members of the community attended the event at the MSJC Menifee Valley Campus to honor, remember, and unite.

The ceremony, coordinated by a committee of representatives from MSJC, City of Menifee, and local businesses, provided an opportunity to reflect, memorialize, and educate current and future generations about the significance of Sept. 11, 2001, in American history.

Presentation of colors was made by the California Cadet Corps, 310 Battalion, 2nd Brigade from the Santa Rosa Academy and the national anthem was sung by Anahi Rodriguez. The ceremony included moments of silence for significant times and events of 9/11 and their significance in shaping the world today.

Menifee Mayor Bill Zimmerman and members of the 9/11 planning committee unveiled an artifact; a piece of the World Trade Center which was presented to MSJC.

The keynote address was presented by Steve Silva, a 9/11 survivor, who shared his experiences being in Tower 2 of the World Trade Center south tower. His compelling story provided attendees with a sense of what he and many others experienced on that day. Following the ceremony, Silva continued his keynote and shared photographs he took leaving the building and of the towers once outside.

City, county, and state officials presented Silva with proclamations.

Guests also had the opportunity to learn about lives lost on 9/11 and research names and location on bronze panels at the 9/11 memorial pools in New York in a room set with memorials and information.

9/11 survivor Steve Silva shares his experiences with the audience on Monday.

 A Riverside County Sheriff's deputy and his K9 partner place a flag on the MSJC grounds.