BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The annual Raleigh County Parade of Lights was held Sunday in tribute and remembrance of those lost to the September 11, 2001 attacks on our country.
The silent proceeding occurs each year as a solemn tribute, and features Fire, EMS, Police, and other emergency vehicles traversing the county as a show of respect on the anniversary of the attacks.
This year’s procession commemorated the 21st anniversary of the tragic and historical day.Â
Beginning at Independence High School, the array of emergency response vehicles embarked on the journey through the county, making their way to Robert C. Byrd Drive, Neville Street, Main Street, Prince Street, and back onto Robert C. Byrd once more before following Ragland Road to Linda K. Epling Stadium for the event’s conclusion.Â
Here, the participating vehicles assembled in salute of the red white and blue, represented on this evening by way of a mighty American flag being hoisted high in the night sky by a pair of fire engines below.Â
The annual ceremony began as an event pertaining generally to just Raleigh County, but over time has evolved into one of, if not the largest annual 9/11 memorial tribute in the state of West Virginia.Â
We mourn those lost on that day, and salute those who keep their legacies alive through continued sacrifice and commitment to this country and its citizens. May we never forget.Â