Area churches held a special 15th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Service and Appreciation Dinner Sunday, Sept. 11, in Wright City.First responders and members of the community came together for the event.About 450 people attended to honor and remember, and more than $1,500 was raised for BackStoppers, an organization that helps injured first responders and their families.“Many different faiths and groups came together to honor the fallen and the current members of a very exclusive club,” said Michelle Heiliger, who attended the event.“This group of men and women make it their life’s mission to ensure the safety and well-being of every citizen of our community. We were honored to hear some very passionate and thought-provoking speakers, witness the blessing of two new babies of Wright City police officers, hear wonderful music, and make a donation to the BackStoppers organization,” she said.Guests were welcomed by first responders who showcased their vehicles and medical helicopter units from ARCH Air Medical Services and Air Evac Lifeteam.The remembrance service offered a slide presentation from the events of 9/11 with a memorial to those who died.Local guest speakers included Jack Richards, a paramedic who was part of a crew that flew during 9/11; Kelly King, Warren County prosecuting attorney; Joshua Riebe, assistant fire chief of Wright City Fire Protection District; and Sherry Williamson, a recent apartment fire victim.Spouses of local first responders received a carnation in recognition of their support.Everyone enjoyed a free meal afterward in honor of all Warren County first responders.“I cannot express how proud I was today to be a part of the Wright City community,” Heiliger said. “The coming together of all the different churches and community members with one common cause in mind was humbling.”The event was the work of sponsors and the pastors from several area churches: Pastor Joseph Purl with the Wright City Church of the Nazarene, Pastor Chad Hodges with the First Baptist Church of Wright City, Pastor Tom Higgins, pastor of Immanuel United Church of Christ, Pastor Maury Clay, pastor of the Wesley-Smith United Methodist Church, and Pastor Vaughn Adkins, pastor of Founder’s Grove Church.Wright City R-II School District, Farmer’s Super Market, A Moment of Grace Florist and New Road Enterprises also sponsored the event.

Area first responders were the honored guests at the 15th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Service and Appreciation Dinner held Sept. 11 in Wright City. Submitted photo.