MITCHELL, SD (MitchellNow.com) – As the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, approaches, elements of the local community—and beyond—are preparing a couple of interesting events to mark the occasion and honor both those who died in the attacks and those who rose to heroics during and after the crises.
Neither of these events takes place on 9/11 specifically, but many will take that day to remember and reflect with family, friends and others they hold close.
(If you’re interested in remembering 9/11 en masse on 9/11, multiple events will take place in Sioux Falls on Friday, including another workout and stair climb and a ceremony at Minnehaha Country Club.)
Nation of Patriots Tour
Each year, veterans support nonprofit The Nation of Patriots organizes its motorcycle tour in honor of those that served, during which a single American flag is carried though all 50 states over the course of around 120 days, supported and followed by thousands.
This year, after an appearance in Sioux Falls, the tour and flag will roll through Mitchell just two days after 9/11, offering a special opportunity for the two American honors to coincide.
On Sunday, Sept. 13, after meeting up with riders and supporters at the Flying J at 10 a.m., the group will hold a ceremony in front of the Mitchell Corn House at noon.
9/11 Memorial Workout/Stair Climb
A week later, CrossFit Tempest will hold a workout event at Joe Quintal Field on Saturday, Sept. 19 ” to remember the courage, sacrifice, and strength shown that day.”
Participants will climb 2,071 steps to represent the Twin Towers’ 110 floors.
“We’ll sweat, struggle, and push through together,” read an event announcement on Facebook. “25 years later, we remember. We honor. We never forget.”
The workout starts at 9 a.m. Commemorative T-shirts will be available, with proceeds going toward new fitness equipment for the Mitchell Fire Department.