Corpus Christi marks 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 with remembrance ceremony

Corpus Christi held a ceremony on Sept. 11 to mark the 25th anniversary of the 2001 attacks, drawing local public‑safety leaders, elected officials and residents for remarks, music and moments of silence. Chief Perez opened the program and invited District 32 Representative Todd Hunter to offer the invocation.

“Let us never forget those we honor today,” Representative Todd Hunter said in his invocation, asking for comfort for victims’ families and blessings for first responders. The presentation of colors and the national anthem followed, and officials from the fire department, police department and port police each addressed the crowd.

Corpus Christi Fire Chief Wade recalled the scale of the tragedy and the continuing toll on responders, citing “almost 3,000 civilians” killed on that day and subsequent deaths among recovery personnel. Corpus Christi Police Chief Markle and Port Police Chief Eric Giannimore praised the courage of first responders and urged the community to carry forward the memory of those who sacrificed.

A ceremonial bell tribute honored firefighters’ “last alarm,” and Deputy Fire Chief Daniel Valdez delivered a benediction to close the program. Chief Perez closed the ceremony with thanks to attendees and organizers.