Fresno City College held its 24th annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony on Sept. 11, at Veterans Square, where students, faculty, veterans and community members gathered to honor the lives lost during the attacks of 2001.

The program began at 9 a.m. with a wreath march and bagpipe performance by retired FCC biology instructor Scott Porteous, which set a reflective tone for the morning, as attendees grew quiet as the sounds echoed across the campus.

This year’s keynote speaker was former Marine Corps drill sergeant turned pastor, Rick Jimenez of Rivergate Ministries. Jimenez spoke about themes of service, sacrifice and resilience, encouraging the audience to carry forward the values demonstrated by first responders and everyday citizens during the attacks. 

 “I think that the number one thing that we saw on 9/11 was people rise up to do these really brave, courageous feats,” Jimenez said.

Jimenez emphasized the bravery of the first responders and the importance of carrying their spirit of sacrifice into everyday life.

“It wasn’t out of strength or discipline and being well trained, it was just out of love for a brother. And so that’s what I wanted to instill today,” Jimenez said.

Following his speech, the crowd stood together for a moment of silence, remembering and honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost, including over 440 firefighters, police officers, and paramedics who gave their lives that day. 

The ceremony concluded with the ringing of the bell, a symbolic act to honor fallen firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect. For many in the crowd, it was a moment that brought emotions to the surface, sadness for the loss, but also gratitude for the bravery that defined that day.

For over two decades, FCC has hosted this memorial as a reminder of the lasting impact of 9/11 and the importance of reflection, unity, and remembrance. For many who weren’t yet born in 2001, the event served as both educational and remembrance.

As the program concluded, the wreath remained on display at Veterans Square. Attendees lingered, some speaking to each other, others standing alone in reflection.

While the events of September 11, 2001, may have taken place far from Fresno, the impact continues to resonate locally, connecting generations through shared reflection and commitment to never forget.