Hammond City holds 25th‑anniversary 9/11 remembrance with mayor, first responders and musical tributes

Hammond City held a remembrance ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks that drew the mayor, city council members, and local police and fire leadership.

Scott Miller, chief of staff to Mayor Thomas M. McDermott Jr., emceed the program and asked the audience to stand for a presentation of colors by the joint Police and Fire Honor Guard. Gloria Rivera performed the national anthem. Pastor Sam Hamstra of Anthem Church offered an invocation and later a closing prayer. A 21‑gun salute was performed outside for the live stream; Deputy Chief Dave Wise rang the last bell three times and taps were played by Steve Strains, accompanied by the Lake County Police bagpipes and drums.

Mayor Thomas M. McDermott Jr. and other officials spoke about the scale of the attacks and the local meaning of the day. McDermott recalled the national response that followed and said, "May we never forget the 2,977 innocent lives taken." Chief Bernie Grazolia of the Hammond Fire Department reflected on the brotherhood of first responders, and Assistant Chief Chris Godi noted continuing health consequences among those who responded in New York City.

The ceremony emphasized remembrance and local gratitude for first responders. The event closed with prayers and the mayor's request that attendees "keep the spirit alive."