With the nation joined together in somber remembrances earlier this week on Sept. 11, Chehalis Mayor Tony Ketchum made a proclamation at Monday’s city council meeting declaring Sept. 11, 2023, as Patriot Day in Chehalis.
Following the terrorist attacks and tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, the U.S. Congress passed a joint resolution on Dec. 18, 2001, designating Sept. 11 as Patriot Day every year and followed that with a congressional request to observe Sept. 11 as the National Day of Service and Remembrance in 2009, Ketchum explained.
“Whereas, on this 22nd anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, we join with President Joseph Biden, Governor Jay Inslee and the entire nation in remembering and honoring the memory of those who, as President George W. Bush said in his first Patriot Day proclamation, ‘will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts and in the history of our nation,’” Ketchum said.
Chehalis Fire Chief Adam Fulbright and Chehalis Police Deputy Chief Matt McKnight accepted the proclamation on behalf of first responders.
Following the proclamation, the Chehalis City Council, city staff and those in attendance at Monday’s meeting observed a moment of silence in remembrance of the 9/11 victims and first responders.