As the nation marked the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 attacks, residents across Wisconsin joined in a series of somber remembrances Wednesday. In Milwaukee, the day's events commenced with a poignant ceremony at the Milwaukee War Memorial Center, where city and state leaders, along with local veterans, gathered to pay tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost on that fateful day in 2001. FOX6 News reports attendees laid wreaths to honor the different factions of victims - civilians, military members, law enforcement, and first responders.

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, flags throughout Wisconsin were to be lowered to half-staff as a gesture of remembrance and mourning. Across the state, cities and towns individually scheduled their own ceremonies to solemnly recall those lost and affected by the events of 9/11. Event listings provided residents with opportunities to solemnly join in the day of commemoration.

Specifically in Milwaukee, the day's memorials included a 7:30 a.m. gathering at the War Memorial Center, spotlighting appearances by Mayor Cavalier Johnson accompanied by first responders and members from local veterans groups. This event was open to the public, inviting all who wished to pay respects. A separate, time-specific memorial presentation took place at Milwaukee City Hall at 7:46 a.m., observing the exact moment when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the north tower of the World Trade Center. WISN details that this event featured performances by the Milwaukee Fire and Police Pipes and Drums, and was followed by an 8:15 a.m. event attended by Mayor Johnson, Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman, and Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski.