Across California, CDCR paid tribute to the lives lost during the 9/11 terror attacks. Staff and communities united to remember the day so many people were killed 25 years ago.
This round-up will be updated as more submissions are received at OPEC.submissions@cdcr.ca.gov.
Salinas parole staff join community remembrance
Parole agents from the Salinas Parole Complex joined the Salinas Police and Fire Departments at Salinas Fire Station No. 1 to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
Several hundred members of the community attended to recognize the lives lost Sept. 11, 2001. The ceremony consisted of ringing the fire bell while uniformed Salinas firefighters read the 343 names of New York Fire Department Firefighters killed Sept. 11, 2001. Salinas Mayor Dennis Donahue and Monterey County Supervisor Luis Alejo were in attendance.
Story submitted by Paul Baltazar, parole administrator
RJD staff, families honor fallen heroes at San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
A dedicated team of 45 staff and their families from the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) joined hundreds of first responders, military personnel, and civilians on Sept. 5 for the 14th annual San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.
Organized by the non-profit organization Firefighter Aid, this year’s event also marked the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Participants gathered to scale the equivalent of 110 stories—the exact height of the World Trade Center towers—to ensure the ultimate sacrifices made by first responders are never forgotten.
To personalize the memorial, every climber carried a badge featuring the photo and name of one of the 403 emergency responders who lost their lives the day of the attack. The badges honored 343 staff from the Fire Department of New York, 23 New York Police Department officers and 37 Port Authority personnel.
Representing the CDCR team, RJD Personnel Specialist Bucio completed the grueling climb alongside her eight-year-old daughter, Madison, showcasing the event’s deep impact across generations.
“Watching her push through the climb was inspiring,” said Bucio. “She not only honored the memory of the firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, but also demonstrated courage, perseverance and heart every step of the way. We were incredibly proud to have her participate and represent the spirit of the event on our CDCR team.”
The annual climb raises critical funds for Firefighter Aid, which provides year-round support, resources and crisis assistance to firefighters and their families in times of need.
Submitted by Lt. K. Cottrell
Valley State Prison marks 9/11 anniversary
Valley State Prison in Chowchilla held a heartfelt ceremony to honor the lives lost and the many individuals still affected by the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. Staff and attendees gathered to reflect, remember and pay tribute to the enduring impact of that day.
The ceremony opened with a moving rendition of the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” performed by Allison Wells. Her performance set a solemn and respectful tone for the event.
Following the anthem, acting Warden O. Bailey and acting Chief Executive Officer A. Garcia-Cisneros delivered spoke about the significance of remembering 9/11. They also discussed the resilience of the nation and the importance of honoring those who continue to carry its legacy.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, allowing attendees to reflect on the events of 2001 and the strength that has emerged in the years since.
Submitted by Lt. J. Reyes
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