Patriot Park was filled with solemn reflection and quiet reverence Thursday as the City of Marshfield hosted its annual “Marshfield Remembers” event A field of 2,977 American flags lined the grounds, each symbolizing a life lost in the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, while beams of light rose into the night sky to represent the fallen towers.
Among the thousands in attendance were Denny and Jenny Quinn of Ozark, Missouri, who traveled to NYC in the weeks after the attacks to volunteer at Ground Zero. The couple worked with Baptist Disaster Relief, teaming up with the Salvation Army to provide meals for recovery crews. Jenny recalled how first responders (firefighters, EMTs, and police officers) expressed deep gratitude for volunteers who had come from across the nation.
“They were so appreciative. When they saw we were from Missouri, they said, ‘You came all this way to help us?’ And we told them, of course… We were all one at that time,” she recalled.
The Quinns described the haunting quiet of the site, broken only by the sounds of heavy equipment or the solemn pause as recovery teams carried out another victim. They collected patches, pins, and even signatures from responders, tokens which carry memories of the lives lost and the brotherhood forged in tragedy. Attending Marshfield’s memorial was about ensuring that future generations understand both the horror of that day and the unity that followed.
“It’s been 24 years, and I’m afraid people are beginning to forget,” Jenny said. “This event tonight… It’s marvelous. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Marshfield Mayor Natalie McNish emphasized that remembrance and education are at the heart of the annual event. More than 260 sixth graders visited the memorial to learn about the attacks and the hope that followed.
“The only way we can truly ‘never forget’ is if we share the stories,” McNish said. “Not just the tragedy of 9/11, but the unity of Sept. 12.”
This year’s program featured the MHS Concert Choir, a prayer led by Officer Josh Burris, student projects, and guided tours of the flag field. Fire Chief Michael Taylor tolled the memorial bell, and Marshfield native Bryant Robinson closed the evening with a moving performance of Taps.
McNish credited city staff, local schools, civic organizations, and first responders for making the memorial possible. The Marshfield FFA helped line the road with flags, the Fire Protection District and Cox Ambulance participated in displays, and Marshfield’s street and utility departments prepared the grounds and lighting.
“It truly is a labor of love for so many,” McNish said. “Every year it becomes more meaningful, more honoring of those who sacrificed.”
As the lights dimmed and the crowd stood in silence, the words “Never Forget” carried deeper meaning. A reminder not only of the devastation of 2001, but of the resilience, unity, and shared purpose that emerged in its aftermath.
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