Monday gathering at Veterans Plaza honored 25th anniversary of 9/11 attacks

Mountain Home residents gathered Monday afternoon at Veterans Plaza across from the downtown square to remember the victims and first responders of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

The gathering marked the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and featured several speakers, including Arkansas State Rep. Stetson Painter and retired New York City firefighter John Ceriello, who was a member of FDNY Rescue Company 1 when the attacks occurred.

Ceriello recalled being off duty when he learned a plane had struck the World Trade Center. He immediately headed toward Manhattan and crossed the Brooklyn Bridge as the attack unfolded.

The ceremony was held near Mountain Home’s 9/11 memorial, which was erected in 2022 and includes a piece of the World Trade Center. The memorial also recognizes the attacks on the Pentagon and Flight 93.

Mountain Home firefighter Tommy Feliccia told KYTV News the distance from New York does not lessen the importance of remembering the attacks.

“We might be hundreds of miles away from New York City, but I want us to remember here,” Feliccia said.

Friday marks the official 25th anniversay of 9/11 and the plaza is open to the public for those wishing to visit and reflect on the day.

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