EMU Today

WHO:         

Eastern Michigan University, the second oldest public school in the State of Michigan, will host its 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the University’s beam from the World Trade Center.

WHAT:             

Eastern Michigan University will hold its annual, open-to-the-public Ceremony of Remembrance Wednesday, September 11 at 8:30 a.m. at Eastern Michigan University's 9/11 Memorial (located behind Pease Auditorium, at the corner of East Cross Street and Perrin Street) in memory of those lost and the first responders. The public is invited to attend.

The ceremony will include the National Anthem, a moment of silence, taps, a prayer and words of perspective, as well as a chance to explore the memorial, which features a large steel beam from the South Tower of the World Trade Center.

The 14-foot steel support beam weighs about 6,800 pounds, and is pockmarked with dents made from molten metal falling on the beam. Written on the side is "south," which is presumed to mean the South Tower, the second one hit but the first to collapse.

The number "74" inscribed appears to mean the 74th floor, just several floors from the 78th floor, where the second plane crashed into the tower. A side on one end of the beam is simply sheared off, testimony to the overwhelming forces at play in the collapse of the tower.

The Pease site, situated in the low-lying, southeast corner of campus and partially shielded by trees and tucked into a hill, offers an ideal venue for experiencing the memorial in a setting that can offer quiet and individual reflection.

Photo and interview opportunities will be available.

WHEN:

Wednesday, September 11

8:30 a.m.

WHERE:

Eastern Michigan University

Behind Pease Auditorium

494 College Pl

Ypsilanti, 48197