CLARKSBURG, W.Va. – Governor Patrick Morrisey joined federal law enforcement officials, first responders, and community members today at the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The solemn ceremony brought together local leaders, the FBI Police Honor Guard, and regional representatives to honor the victims of the 2001 attacks, pay tribute to first responders, and reflect on a quarter-century of national resilience.
“As we mark twenty-five years of remembrance, it is fitting that we gather here in Clarksburg, right in the heart of West Virginia,” said Governor Morrisey. “The grief and the heroism touched every single corner of our nation, including our own state.”
During his address, Governor Morrisey honored the profound impact the tragedy had on the nation and specifically remembered West Virginians lost that day, including Mary Lou Hague of Parkersburg and Dr. Paul Ambrose of Huntington.
The event program included remarks and participation from FBI Operations Director Mark B. Dargis, CJIS Division Assistant Director Timothy A. Ferguson, former Assistant Director Thomas A. Bush III, and CJIS Division Chaplain Rev. James Edward “Ed” McDaniels. The ceremony also featured a presentation of colors by the FBI Police Honor Guard, a musical tribute by the Robert C. Byrd High School Choir, and a memorial bell toll by the Clarksburg Fire Department.
Governor Morrisey emphasized the enduring legacy of the first responders and ordinary citizens who displayed extraordinary courage during America’s darkest hour, urging communities to keep the sacred promise to never forget.
“Today, twenty-five years later, our sacred promise is to never forget,” Governor Morrisey said. “Let us carry forward the unity, the resilience, and the deep patriotism that defined the days following 9/11, and honor the memory of those we lost by living lives worthy of their sacrifice.”
The observance concluded with a moment of silence, a wreath-laying ceremony, and the retirement of colors by the FBI Police Honor Guard.
