Local 9/11 tributes and memorial events honor victims

As Thursday (9/11/2025) marks 24 years since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Local communities are honoring and remembering the 2,996 victims through motorcycle rides on the boardwalk, laps around the racetrack and many other events to service days and vigils. 

• Dover

The Blood Bank of Delmarva and Dover Motor Speedway will host the 20th annual 9/11 memorial blood drive on Thursday, Sept. 11. For only the third time, registered donors will have the chance to drive on the iconic Monster Mile. Blood donations are critical year-round, and organizers urge eligible donors to participate.

A permanent 9/11 memorial stands outside the Air Mobility Command Museum at Dover Air Force Base, featuring two steel pieces from the North Tower, a rock from the Flight 93 crash site, and a block from the Pentagon. The site is open for personal reflection.

• Lewes

The Whitford Family invites the public to attend their annual Patriot Day of Service at 5 p.m. in Lewes. The event honors the Whitfords’ son, Mark, and all 9/11 victims. Mark was a 9/11 first responder who died in the South Tower. Tours, guest speakers, FDNY members, and Delaware State Police bagpipers are scheduled to attend the memorial, which will be held rain or shine. The event will take place at the home of Roger and Carol Whitford at 17181 Minos Conaway Road.

Additional information may be viewed at https://whitford.vip/ 

• https://www.coasttv.com/lewes-family-holds-annual-9-11-memorial/article_9b279a03-d979-5739-aeda-0abc5b4ab0cd.html

• https://www.capegazette.com/article/whitfords-honor-those-who-perished-sept-11-2001/264251

• https://www.capegazette.com/article/whitford-family-hold-annual-patriot-day-service-sept-11-near-lewes/263650  

• Millsboro

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 28 will hold its annual public candlelight ceremony at 6 p.m. on Sept. 11 at the American Legion Post 28 pavilion, 31768 Legion Road.