Pasadena Dedicates 9/11 Memorial

The dedication  of a permanent memorial to 9/11 along Pasadena’s New York Drive took place Sunday under a blazing sun and the roar F-18’s as over 500 listened to a program of government officials and two 9/11 survivors.

Led by the Pasadena 911 committee and said local air force veteran John McDannel, the event supporters included local service clubs, airline crews, veterans groups, businesses, schools and city, state and national representatives.

“As an American, I think it’s important for all of us to never forget the bravery, human sacrifice and events of that fateful day. Fire fighters, police, EMTs, military in uniform, schools, Rotary members, civic clubs, veterans, and citizens are welcome to attend. Patriotism is alive and well in Pasadena.”

Since the 9-11 attacks, McDannel worked tirelessly for the last decade towards a Pasadena memorial.

“I couldn’t do anything to retaliate, so I planted trees,” said McDannel. Since then, he has solicited and received tree donations, and has personally planted 140 native oak trees along New York Drive. This beautiful effort now serves as a living memorial to the victims of 9/11. The temporary road signs noting New York Drive as a memorial to 9/11 victims will be placed along the boulevard’s green zones.

Chairman McDannel has a larger goal for the on-going tribute. He wants to create a new 9/11 Memorial Lake in Pasadena to commemorate and honor the fallen heroes by developing a park land in the Eaton Canyon basin for all to enjoy. The Port Authority of New York has been asked to release two I-Beams from the World Trade Center to Pasadena with the hope that city leaders will incorporate these relics into a beautiful memorial park near Eaton Canyon.

The ceremony included Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Pasadena), two USMC F-18’s from Miramar conducting flyover and the Pasadena City College – Tournament of Roses marching band.

In order to donate to the permanent memorial, please contact retired Capt. John McDannel. Individuals, businesses, and foundations are welcome to make a contribution to a restricted memorial fund, a 501c3 established by the Pasadena Parks and Recreation Foundation. Please visit www.Pasadena911Memorial.org for more information.