August 14, 2026
For Immediate Release:
Contact: Sue Dobbe-Leahy 815-236-2550
https://www.legioncrystallake171.org/
25 th Anniversary of 9/11 Community Memorial Event

(Crystal Lake, IL)    The William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 has
announced a day of remembrance to honor of all impacted by the events of Sept. 11,
2001. The public is invited to the Union Cemetery at 150 W. Woodstock St. in Crystal
Lake at 5:00 PM on Friday, Sept. 11 for a solemn memorial ceremony.
Legion Post 171 Commander Charlie Morgan explains, “Bagpipe music, prayers and
reflection will encourage attendees to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost on 9/11. We
will honor the heroes who showed extraordinary courage, unite community members
and inspire a spirit of hope, service and compassion.”
On September 11, 2001 terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York City,
the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia and Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Today,
100 million Americans are too young to remember the events of that date. The legacy of
those who were killed and all who responded lives on through those who work to
commemorate, educate and inspire by bringing together community of all ages to
remember. The William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 is hosting this
event in partnership with City of Crystal Lake. All are invited. All are welcome.
In attendance will be representatives from Crystal Lake Fire and Police. Bells will be
rung in honor of the individuals and groups impacted by the event. There will be a 21-
gun salute, Marine Corps Color Guard and special floodlights in the City of Crystal Lake
parking lot across the street from City Hall at Woodstock Street and Dole Avenue.
Two beams of light will shine into the sky after 7:30 PM until midnight. Football
programs at Prairie Ridge and Central High Schools will pause for a minute of reflection
during their Friday night games. Attendees will be asked to face the floodlights for a
moment of silence in honor and remembrance of those impacted by 9/11/01.

To learn more about William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 Crystal
Lake, visit www.LegionCrystalLake171.org.