Do you remember where you were at on September 11, 2001? Though long ago, this is a day many Americans will never forget. Three planes struck American buildings, but one lone flight - Flight 93 - crashed into the ground, taking only its brave passengers as casualties. The flight, which had been headed for San Francisco, made a U-turn just west of Cleveland as its hijackers set course for Washington, D.C. Though the tragedy may feel years ago and miles away from our cozy community, a little piece of that heartbreaking day in American history has found a home in a small town near Cleveland.
In remembrance of the lives lost and the tragedies faced by survivors, one piece of American history has been proudly displayed in Medina, Ohio.
Nestled beside Fire Station No. 1 is a memorial you should take the time to stop and see.
Amidst the serene beauty of the park, you’ll find a scale sculpture of the Twin Towers.
Despite the peacefulness of the surroundings, there is a powerful sense of solemnness around the monument.
Before you, so close that you could reach out and touch it, is a two-ton I-beam from the North Tower.
It took a great deal of heat to twist the bolts of this beam, which is truly staggering to see. Photos do not do it justice. Though you may remember exactly where and when you learned of the events of September 11, to see a piece of the destruction is a moving experience.
You may wonder what this artifact’s connection is to the City of Medina.
It was 10:03 a.m. on September 11, 2001, when United Airlines Flight 93 passed over Medina County. Shortly thereafter, it crashed in Pennsylvania. The hijacked flight was headed toward Washington, D.C. when brave passengers decided to take matters into their own hands. The memorial pays homage to these courageous souls.
The tragic event resulted in 1.8 million tons of debris. Salvaged remnants were saved, and many pieces have been distributed across the nation over the years.
The piece at the Medina memorial is a whopping 9 feet and 3 inches in length.
Through the efforts of the City of Medina and the Medina Rotary Club, this monument opened to the public in early 2018.
The monument is made of two paved circles, which represent the cross-section of a plane. You may also notice the design of a wing in the granite.
Whether you bring a picnic to the pavilion or just sit on the surrounding benches to get lost in thought, a trip to this incredible memorial is sure to be emotional.
Little gifts and flowers have been left at the base of the sculpture, and they bring to mind those we lost, the brave first responders, and those we’ve saved. They cause one to consider how one tragedy caused our nation to come together as one giant community in the wake of the disaster.
Americans will never forget that the deadliest act of terrorism took place on our own soil. It was many years ago now, but it is still fresh in our minds and hearts. A piece of that day is now a permanent fixture in this small town near Cleveland, and a visit to it is both humbling and moving.
You’ll find the monument located at 300 W. Reagan Pkwy., Medina, OH.
If you enjoy local history, check out this incredible Cleveland history center.
Or if you want to experience amazing attractions in Cle, we've got you covered.
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