9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

The community is invited to gather for a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Friday, September 11, 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

The ceremony will begin promptly at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. The event will be held in the upper parking lot of City Hall near the flag poles.

This solemn ceremony provides an opportunity to honor the lives lost, recognize the courage and sacrifice of first responders, and reflect on the resilience and unity demonstrated in the aftermath of September 11.

The public is welcome and encouraged to attend as we come together in remembrance and honor.

PROGRAM OF EVENTS

8:40 AM – Assembly at the Memorial Site

• Musical Prelude: Bagpipes performed by Lt. Brian Houde as attendees gather.

8:46 AM – Moment of Reflection

• Opening Announcement: Chief Newport "As we gather to remember the events of September 11th, 2001, please silence all mobile devices."

WELCOME ADDRESS

• Opening Remarks: Chief Newport
  • Honoring the memory of Retired NYC Firefighter and EMT David Shane.
  • Recognizing a Portsmouth resident for their service in the search & rescue efforts at Ground Zero

GUEST SPEAKERS

• The Honorable Deaglan McEachern, Mayor of Portsmouth
• Buzz Scherr, Police Commission Chair (Reading remarks on behalf of Senator Maggie Hassan)
• Bill McQuillen, Fire Chief
• Mariela Cherry, Elks Exalted Ruler

SILENT REMEMBRANCE

• Moment of Silence: Led by Chief Newport

SPECIAL TRIBUTES

• Rifle Salute: Portsmouth Police Honor Guard, led by Lt. Seth Tondreault
• Taps: Performed by Retired Portsmouth Firefighter Ted Blood
• Amazing Grace: Performed by Lt. Brian Houde

CLOSING

• Floral Tribute: Attendees are cordially invited to lay flowers at the Memorial.

Thank you for joining us today as we honor and remember

Special Thanks & Acknowledgements

We extend our deepest gratitude to those who made today's ceremony possible:

The Jellison's & The Fence Force Flagline Team Elks Lodge #97 - Exalted Ruler, Officers and Membership Ted Blood and Brian Houde – Musical Support City of Portsmouth's DPW & Maintenance Team