Newport News, CNU host 25th‑anniversary 9/11 remembrance; mayor issues Patriot’s Day proclamation

Christopher Newport University and the City of Newport News hosted a 25th‑anniversary remembrance ceremony for the Sept. 11 attacks at CNU’s campus, bringing together public safety honor guards, elected officials, university leaders and community members.

Captain Randy Cupp opened the program and introduced speakers from the university and city. “25 years later, we remember the sacrifice,” Cupp said, framing the event as a tribute to first responders and to those who have since died from exposure-related illness — a figure he described during his remarks as "more than 4,000 people who have since lost their lives caused by exposure." The figure was stated by the speaker as part of his remembrance remarks.

Jennifer Busch Latour, chief of staff to the president of Christopher Newport University, spoke about the ceremony’s role in passing memory to younger generations and recalled personal family ties to military service. “September 11 is deeply personal for me as well,” Latour said, reflecting on how the day affected families and service members and urging that the next generation understand the lessons of service and sacrifice.

Mayor Philip Jones read a formal proclamation and invited public safety leaders to the stage. “Now, therefore I, Philip Jones, mayor of the city of Newport News, do hereby proclaim September 11 as Patriot's Day in the City of Newport News,” he said, urging citizens to join in honoring police, fire, sheriff and military personnel.

The program also included an invocation from Newport News police chaplain Bell Jackson Earls, musical tributes including the national anthem performed by Brianna Motley, a bell tolling and a reading of the 9/11 timeline by young adult police commissioner Ayesha Ellinghall. The ceremony closed with a prayer from fire chaplain Tom Schneer and a wreath presentation by the public service honor guard.