Palm Beach State College and community gather to pay tribute to 9/11 victims

 

Palm Beach State College commemorated the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks with staff, students and local government representatives, community and service organizations gathering at a remembrance ceremony held at Palm Beach State College Gardens campus on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024.

In his opening remarks, Palm Beach Gardens Provost and Dean Dr. Stephen Joyner honored the heroism of the first responders on Sept. 11, 2021. “They rushed toward the danger without hesitation and their bravery reminds us of the best of humanity even in the darkest of times.”

Former PBSC alumnus and Palm Beach Gardens Fire Dept. Assistant Chief of Administration Shon Broedell recalled in his keynote speech that on Sept. 11, 2001, he was a newly hired firefighter. “But we knew our roles had suddenly become more critical than ever,” he said. The collapse of the Twin Towers was not just the loss of buildings but a devastating blow to the daily fabric of our nation, said Broedell, who also served as EMS fire instructor at PBSC for 15 years. “We saw firsthand the incredible bravery of the first responders who rushed into danger when everyone else ran away.”

PBSC President Ava L. Parker noted that many PBSC were not even born at the time of the terrorist attacks. “That is why here in Florida 23 years later we think it is important to stop and say we remember,” she said. “So, when we say we will always remember, it’s because we want to honor the folks who lost their lives but also be very respectful for those who continue to sacrifice and risk their lives for our safety every day.”

Other who spoke were PBSC Advising Operations Director Ashton Davis, PBSC Veterans Success Center Manager Luis Torres, PBSC EMS Director Matt Keeler, Professor Michael Latimer, CCP Coordinator Phil Berlingo, Criminal Justice Director Vincent Morton, Dr. Germany Dixon, associate dean of public safety, and Associate Dean Trade and Industry Eligio Marquez Veray and and Cory P. Price, Executive Director (CEO) of the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System. The national anthem was sung by PBSC student Wellington Lewis.

For more photos of the event.