COUNTY HOSTS PATRIOT’S DAY COMMEMORATION  

WHEATON -- DuPage County will honor Patriot’s Day with a special observance Tuesday, September 11 at 4:30 pm at the Police and Firefighters Memorial on the DuPage County Government Complex in Wheaton. 

The event is designed to honor the innocent victims who lost their lives as a result of a terrorist attack on America six years ago.  It will also pay homage to police, firefighters, emergency responders, medical personnel and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the public safety.

DuPage County Board Chairman Robert Schillerstrom will offer keynote remarks giving special honor to those whose names are inscribed on the County’s Police and Fire Memorial. 

“None of us must ever forget the courage, dedication and sacrifice of those who work to make our world safe on a daily basis. We are fortunate that there are brave men and women who will always be ready, not just do their duty, but to go above and beyond to help their fellow American,” stated Schillerstrom, “I urge every DuPage citizen to attend this solemn event.”

County  Board Member Jim Zay will act as the Master of Ceremonies. .

“September 11 is a day we will never forget. It is our duty as Americans to honor those patriots who gave their lives and those who worked so selflessly in the rescue and recovery efforts.   This is our opportunity to commemorate the liberties and freedoms that came under attack on that dark day,” Zay said.

Senator John J. Millner, 28th District, will address the event and will offer his thoughts and reflections on the anniversary of 9/11 and will pay tribute to the heroes who bravely answered the call to duty that day.   Millner served as Elmhurst Chief of Police for 16 years and is the Past President of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, Past President of the Law Enforcement Foundation of Illinois, and Past President of the DuPage County Chiefs of Police Association.

Additional speakers will include Ron Ackerman, West Chicago Fire Chief and President of the DuPage County Fire Chiefs Association, Ron Moser, Hanover Park Police Chief and President of the DuPage County Police Chiefs Association, and Thomas Mefferd, Director of the DuPage County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.   DuPage County Board members will participate in a ceremonial laying of wreaths in tribute to lost police officers and firefighters on the memorial.

DuPage County Board Chairman Bob Schillerstrom urged all families to attend the observance, especially those with school-aged children.   “Making sense of the tragedy of 9/11 has been very difficult for our kids,” said Schillerstrom.  “By participating in this moving observance, I am hoping that our children will be able to give thanks to the heroes of that day and to see first hand how our shared patriotism has united Americans.”

Parking is available at the site.   Refreshments will be served and everyone is encouraged to attend.

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