Marathon officials gathered at the Marathon Fire Rescue Department on Sept. 11, marked the 20th anniversary of the coordinated terrorist attacks against the U.S. On that day, 2,996 people died, including 340 firefighters. “We shall not forget,” said Fire Chief John A. Johnson. He said he had started a high school program for firefighters this year, and he would like to pass along the memory of 9/11 to the students. “These people weren’t even born when the tragedy occurred,” he said. Marathon mayor Luis Gonzalez, council member John Bartus and city manager George Garrett also spoke, while Rev. Luis Perez of San Pablo Catholic Church gave a prayer. The crowd watched silently as a gun salute, a playing of taps and a raising of the flag from half mast rounded out the ceremony with solemnity. “Don’t forget all the people who give up their lives on a daily basis,” said former Monroe County Mayor Mike Puto, who attended the gathering. “And don’t forget to say thank you.”
The American Legion Riders Marathon Chapter stood at respectful attention. 
Rev. Luis Perez of San Pablo Catholic Church gave a prayer. 
A large American flag flapped in the breeze throughout the remembrance. 
A gun salute added to the solemnity of the occasion. 
Officials gathered at the Marathon Fire Rescue Department for the September 11th Remembrance. From left: Marathon Fire Chief John A. Johnson, Council Member John Bartus, Mayor Luis Gonzalez and city manager George Garrett. 
Members of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 154 were proud to attend the September 11th Remembrance. 
On cue, firefighters were told to raise the flag from half to full mast toward the end of the remembrance. 
Current fire rescue staff also attended the ceremony.
