Locals light candles in honor of 9/11
The city of La Quinta held a candlelight vigil in honor of the victims and first responders affected by the 9/11 tragedies 15 years ago.
Those in attendance admired the 9/11 memorial, which has become home to a piece of the World Trade Center recovered from ground zero. La Quinta’s mayor, Linda Evans, said the memorial unites the community.
“This allows people to pay tribute to those that were lost, recognize the community that we have, and it provides a venue for them to be thankful for the life that we have in America,” said Evans.
Manuel Belandres, a boy scout with Troop 377 wasn’t born to witness the tragic day. His mom hopes Manuel learns about the event and what it means to America.
“I want him to understand and to be aware of the gravity of what happened in 2001, and by being here, I am proud that we can be here as boy scouts,” said Cheryl Belandres.
As the night came to an end and the 15th anniversary of 9/11 rests, Evans urged all to pay tribute to first responders.
“We look at 9/11 and remember the tragic day 15 years ago. Please, I encourage all of you to thank a firefighter, thank a police officer and thank anyone who comes to the aid of those in need, rising to the occasion to serve.”
