09/12/2026
Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending the 25th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony honoring service and sacrifice.
It was an incredibly well-organized, powerful and meaningful event — one that provided an opportunity not only to remember, but to reflect on service, sacrifice, heroism and the importance of unity.
Mayor Fred Cleveland led the ceremony with thoughtful perspectives on what this day in history has meant to each of us, both individually and as a community. His words on heroism echoed throughout the Brannon Center and served as a reminder that heroes are often ordinary people who, when faced with extraordinary circumstances, choose to act, not with the absence of fear, but in the face of it.
Fire Chief John Flynn offered equally powerful insight into what it truly means “to serve” — particularly in the face of unimaginable disaster, fear and chaos.
The Bell Ceremony was especially moving, giving everyone in attendance a quiet moment to reflect on those who sacrificed, those who served, and our own personal memories and experiences.
Music was woven beautifully throughout the ceremony.
Christie Beu absolutely knocked the National Anthem “out of the park.” Brad “The Piper” delivered a beautiful performance of Amazing Grace, and James W. Hall’s playing of Taps was incredibly moving. Each performance became part of the fabric of the remembrance.
And then came a performance that, for me, captured the spirit of the entire event.
I’m sharing the full video of “America the Beautiful,” performed by the Chisholm High School Legacy Choir under the direction of Dr. John H. Cummings, Jr.
While the entire ceremony was remarkable, there is something about this performance that captures the emotion, pride, community and hope that filled the Brannon Center yesterday.
It’s the full version — but I have a feeling that once you start watching, you’ll want to stay through the final note.
Thank you to Mayor Cleveland, City Manager Cowper, our City Commissioners, Fire Chief Flynn, the organizers, participants, and especially the first responders and public servants in attendance.
