Palm Coast Honors 9/11 Victims and Heroes at Candlelight Memorial

Palm Coast residents gathered at Heroes Memorial Park on Thursday, September 11, 2025, for a Candlelight Memorial Service honoring the victims and heroes of the September 11th terrorist attacks. The community came together to reflect, remember, and honor the sacrifices made that day.

Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark served as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the program. The Palm Coast Fire Department Honor Guard opened with the presentation of colors, followed by the National Anthem sung by Commander Kenny Goncalvez of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. Rabbi Karen Tashman of Temple Beth Shalom gave the invocation, setting a solemn tone.

Chief Berryhill spoke about the continuing impact of September 11, reminding the audience that the loss did not end on that day. “As we gather today, I’ve been reflecting on the best way for us to truly never forget the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001. Among them were 480 first responders—firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and active-duty military. And even today, nearly 10,000 of our brothers and sisters continue to suffer from 9/11-related illnesses. The loss continues. The sacrifice continues. So how do we remember? One way is through ceremonies like this one… Being intentional about remembering is not optional—it is our duty. We owe it to those who gave their lives that day.”

The ceremony continued with traditions honoring the fallen. Fire Department Chaplain Chris Cottle read the Fireman’s Prayer, followed by the Honor Guard’s solemn ringing of the Bell Toll of 5-5-5-5. Memorial wreaths were placed at both the September 11th Memorial Stone and the 9/11 Survivors Tree in remembrance. The candlelight tribute was then led by Chief Kyle Berryhill, Sheriff Rick Staly, and Mayor Mike Norris.

Reverend Rob Trujillo of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church offered the benediction, after which the Palm Coast Fire Department Honor Guard Pipe and Drum performed Amazing Grace. The moving performance brought the evening to a close.

“May these candles continue to shine as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope, reminding us to cherish each precious moment and to support one another through times of darkness and light,” said Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark.

The annual Candlelight Memorial remains a cornerstone of the City’s commitment to honoring the memory of September 11th, ensuring that the sacrifices of the victims, first responders, and heroes are never forgotten.

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