Fort Erie Honours 25th Anniversary of September 11 with Commemorative Service at Mather Arch

FORT ERIE, ON, September 11, 2026 – The Town of Fort Erie honoured the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks with a commemorative service at Mather Arch. Members of the community, local dignitaries, first responders and representatives from both sides of the border gathered to remember and honour the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives that day.

“Twenty-five years later, we continue to remember the lives lost, the families forever changed and the courage shown in the face of an unimaginable tragedy. Mather Arch stands as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Canada and the United States. Gathering here, within sight of the Peace Bridge, is a meaningful way to show that Fort Erie continues to stand with our American neighbours in remembrance and support.”

- Mayor Wayne Redekop

Mather Arch was selected for its historic connection to peace and friendship between Canada and the United States. Located along the Niagara River near the Peace Bridge and overlooking Buffalo, the site reflects the close relationship shared by the two countries and neighbouring border communities.

The Town thanks the Niagara Parks Commission for its partnership and for providing Mather Arch as a meaningful setting where residents and representatives from both sides of the border could come together to remember those who lost their lives and recognize the enduring camaraderie between Canada and the United States.

The service began with local artist Selena Carlson singing the United States and Canadian national anthems. Rev. Martha Lockwood provided an opening reflection, followed by a land acknowledgement and opening remarks from Mayor Redekop.

City of Buffalo Deputy Mayor Eugenio Russi delivered remarks on behalf of Fort Erie’s neighbouring American community and shared the personal story behind the motorcycle he rode to the commemoration.

The motorcycle has a special connection to a member of Russi’s family and took him eight months to restore. Its centre console bears the names of the 343 firefighters who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Russi received a gold medal in recognition of his service helping secure the World Trade Center site after the attacks, and he incorporated it into the motorcycle's restoration.

Russi said he chose to ride the motorcycle to Mather Arch as a personal tribute to those who lost their lives and to share its story with those in attendance. Its presence added to the spirit of remembrance and affection between the neighbouring communities of Fort Erie and Buffalo.

Rev. Daniel Bennett led a mid-service prayer, followed by the reading of the names of Canadian victims and a moment of silence led by Fort Erie Deputy Fire Chief Christopher Smith.

Rev. Bill Thomas concluded the service with a benediction.

Representatives from the Fort Erie Fire Department, Niagara Regional Police Service, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 71, and many residents also attended to show their respect.

The Town of Fort Erie thanks everyone who participated in the service.

A media kit containing photos from the 9/11 Commemorative Service.

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