Honoring Heroes: Remembering Flight Attendants and 9/11 Legacy

Updated on: October 10, 2024 12:27 pm GMT

Fort Pierce Honors Flight 93 Heroine Cee Cee Ross Lyles During 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

Community Gathers to Remember a Fallen Hero

Fort Pierce, Florida, remembers a local hero every year during a touching ceremony held at Liberty Garden. On September 11, 2023, family, friends, and first responders came together to pay tribute to Cee Cee Ross Lyles, a flight attendant on United Airlines Flight 93, who lost her life in the tragic events that unfolded over two decades ago. Lyles was killed on September 11, 2001, when the plane she was serving was hijacked and ultimately crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

A Life Dedicated to Service

Cee Cee Ross Lyles was not only a flight attendant but also had served with distinction as a detective in the Fort Pierce Police Department. Known for her strong, caring nature and vibrant personality, Lyles left behind two sons and two stepsons. Her legacy continues to inspire and touch the lives of many, especially her son Jevon Castrillo.

A Son’s Remembrance

Castrillo, who was just six years old when his mother died, now in his late 20s, shared poignant memories during the ceremony. “I feel like I’m at a time in my life where her presence, her motivation, and her charisma would be vital for my growth as a man,” he said. The pain of losing his mother is profound, yet these remembrance ceremonies provide him with comfort and a sense of peace.

Honoring All Lives Lost on 9/11

The memorial service at Liberty Garden not only honored Lyles but also all the victims of the September 11 attacks. In total, 2,977 innocent lives were taken that day, including 147 on the four flights involved in the terrorist attacks. The flight crew and passengers on Flight 93 are especially remembered for their courage in fighting back against their hijackers, preventing an even greater tragedy directed toward a symbol of American democracy—the U.S. Capitol.

Community Support and Solidarity

Jevon Castrillo expressed his gratitude for the community’s ongoing support. “Every day I am reminded of her,” he said during the ceremony. “It’s a privilege to have a mother that was in the right place at the right time to do what she did. I’m very grateful for everyone coming out to remember.” This strong sense of community solidarity reflects the broader theme of remembrance and honor that pervades the annual ceremonies held on this somber date.

Related Memorials Across the Region

As part of a nation-wide effort to honor the memory of those lost on 9/11, various ceremonies took place across the Treasure Coast and Palm Beach County. These gatherings serve as reminders not only of the tragedy itself but also of the resilience and unity that emerged in its aftermath.

WPTV’s Coverage of Memorial Events

Fort Pierce’s Ongoing Legacy

Fort Pierce continues to cultivate a legacy of remembrance through events that celebrate courage, community, and service. Each year, the proximity to the Indian River Lagoon provides a serene backdrop for the emotional ceremonies that honor the memory of those lost and celebrate the spirit of those who protect and serve the community.

Upcoming 9/11 Events in the Area

For those looking to participate in similar commemorative events, West Pierce Fire & Rescue is scheduled to hold a public ceremony on September 11, 2024. This gathering seeks to honor all the victims of the attacks, including first responders who risk their lives for the safety of others.

A Lasting Impact

The remembrance of Cee Cee Ross Lyles and the events of September 11 will undoubtedly continue for generations to come. Her story, along with that of countless others, remains a testament to resilience, bravery, and the human spirit. The annual ceremonies such as those held in Fort Pierce serve not only as a remembrance of lost lives but also as a call to honor the everyday heroes within our communities.

Reflections on Recovery and Resilience

While the wounds of September 11, 2001, remain fresh for many, the collective healing journey has shaped a narrative of hope and solidarity. Communities around the country, especially those directly affected, engage in these remembrance activities to show that they will never forget the lives lost or the sacrifices made.

Join the Tradition

As communities come together in remembrance, everyone is invited to participate and contribute to the narratives that define us. Honoring not only individual lives lost but also the local heroes who wake up every day to protect and serve can transform pain into a poignant celebration of humanity and perseverance.

How to Get Involved

Attend local memorial services and activities.
Share stories and memories to keep the dialogue alive.
Support local first responders and organizations dedicated to community service.

As we reflect on this day, let it serve as a reminder to appreciate the everyday heroes in our lives and the communities that bind us together. Through remembrance comes healing, and through togetherness comes strength.

If you want to learn about events and ceremonies for remembering September 11, check out your local government websites or community boards.