BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) – The City of Belleview hosted a 9/11 memorial celebration at the Belleview Community Center.
The city says the event was held to remember those lost during the tragic events of 9/11 and to honor the first responders who serve their communities selflessly every day.
In attendance at the event were first responders from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Belleview Police Department, along with veterans from American Legion Post 284, members of the Ocala Ft. King Lions Club and Ocala Lions Club 200, and families from across the community.
The event started with American Legion Post 284 veterans presenting the nation’s colors.
The presentation of the nation’s colors was followed by a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem and “God Bless America,” sung by the Belleview High School Chamber Singers.
Belleview’s Mayor Christine Dobkowski then addressed the crowd on the importance of continued remembrance.
“In Belleview, we have a longstanding tradition of coming together to honor the victims and heroes of 9/11. Every year, this event serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and resilience shown by our first responders, not only on that day but in their daily service to our community. It’s important for us to remember their sacrifice and continue showing our gratitude. This day also reminds us of how united we are in Belleview—standing strong together, no matter the challenge,” said Mayor Dobkowski.
Belleview Police Sergeant Mike Miley took to the podium next for his reflection on 9/11. Miley noted the change in young people when it happened and talked about how drastically the world changed for people growing up.
The sergeant talked about how 9/11 “revealed the strength and unity of the nation,” and noted the overwhelming bravery of the first responders who reacted to the scenes at ground zero.
Florida State Representative Ryan Chamberlin spoke next about the “impact of the day, the sacrifices of the passengers aboard Flight 93, and the resilience of the American people in the face of adversity.”
He spoke about the passengers aboard the hijacked planes, saying they made the “ultimate sacrifice” to protect others.
“Their courage is a testament to the strength of the American spirit,” said Chamberlin.
Belleview City Administrator Sandi McKamey said, “Events like the Freedom Walk serve as a bridge, connecting generations through shared experiences of gratitude and reflection. It’s not just about looking back on the events of 9/11, but also about strengthening the ties in our own community today. By coming together, we are showing our support for those who serve, for those we lost, and for each other.”
Robert Vass, Events and Promotions Manager for the City of Belleview, added his thoughts on the evening’s success. “Seeing so many members of the Belleview community come together tonight is incredibly moving,” said Vass. “The strength of this community is in its ability to unite, not just in times of hardship but in moments of reflection like this. It’s clear that the spirit of 9/11—the unity, the resilience, the shared sense of purpose—still lives on here in Belleview. That’s what makes this event so meaningful year after year.”