Remembering 9/11: Skokie and North Shore Communities Unite in Commemoration

Flags were lowered to half-staff in Skokie and across the North Shore on Friday, as residents and first responders gathered to reflect on the September 11 terrorist attacks, 25 years after the tragic events changed the United States. Kathy Ryan, a Skokie resident, shared her recollections with Pioneer Press during one of three remembrance ceremonies hosted by the Skokie Fire Department to honor lives lost that day. She recounted how she was in her family room preparing for a bowling league when her husband urged her to witness the unfolding events, initially mistaking the tragedy for an aircraft accident.

Ryan described how the silence that followed the groundings of airlines created a surreal atmosphere. Birds’ chirping became prominent amidst a quiet suspension of normalcy. Ann Green, a friend of Ryan, expressed the sadness of the day, acknowledging the personal loss experienced by her family.

Green and Ryan consistently visit Fire Station 16 on Niles Center Road, headquarters of Skokie’s Fire Department, to honor the victims and first responders of 9/11. For many, the 25th anniversary carried significant weight as they reflected on the events that resulted in the devastation of the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, claiming nearly 3,000 lives.

On September 11, 2026, Skokie firefighters maintained their annual tradition with a ceremonial march and flag lowering. Claire Murphy of Pioneer Press captured images of this observance. At 8:59 a.m., just before Flight 175’s impact on the south tower, Skokie’s Fire Department joined police officers, emergency service operators, and public safety personnel in an honor guard procession, surrounded by local residents.

Leading a moment of silence, first responders bowed their heads in tribute to the victims. Skokie Fire Chief Nicholas Eschner emphasized the importance of remembering the shared sacrifices made by law enforcement, civilians, and the valuable lessons learned from 9/11. Eschner, who started this tradition in 2002, opted to keep the ceremony consistent annually.

Eschner recounted experiencing the attacks as a sophomore in high school, explaining that these events further fueled his aspiration to become a firefighter. The community’s engagement in the event holds profound meaning for Skokie Police Chief Jesse Barnes.

A ‘last alarm’ bell rang out during the ceremony, honoring those who fell a quarter-century ago. Barnes highlighted the significant shifts in law enforcement post-9/11, prompting a focus on advanced training and technology to maintain public safety.

Nearby Evanston planned its commemorative event, featuring state Rep. Robyn Gabel, former Mayor Steve Hagerty, fire and police members, and 9/11 survivor Mark Shore. Winnetka organized flag displays and community observances, while Glencoe scheduled a morning ceremony at the veterans flagpole. Northfield residents, joined by first responders, gathered at the fire rescue facility for a reflection and station bell tolling marking the collapse of the first tower.

Skokie resident Ryan reiterated the importance of never forgetting 9/11’s impact. Although 25 years have passed, the memories remain vivid for her, feeling both distant and like yesterday.