Wednesday, September 3, 2025 10:19 am

Forest City Fire Rescue and the Town of Forest City are hosting the 24th Anniversary 9/11 Memorial Ceremony on Thursday, September 11 at POPS (153 Park Square, Forest City).

The public is encouraged to attend the ceremony that begins at 10 am to remember the injured and those who lives their lives in the line of duty during the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. The ceremony will also honor local heroes.

Sgt. Kristopher Benson is the guest speaker for Patriot Day ceremony at POPS on 9/11. Born in Columbus, Ohio in 1974, Sgt. Benson graduated from Miami University before beginning a career in technical recruiting in Chicago. Following the events of 9/11, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2001. After graduating honor graduate from the School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton, he was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines at Twentynine Palms, CA.

Sgt. Benson deployed twice to Iraq, first in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom as a Forward Observer, and again in 2004-05 as Section Leader of a Combined Anti-Armor Team along the Euphrates River near the Syrian border. He led Marines in combat operations to provide security, strengthen Iraqi forces, and protect local communities.

After four years of service, he returned to Chicago and later moved to North Carolina with his wife, Jaime, and their daughter. His commendations include the Purple Heart, Navy Commendation Medal with "V," two Navy Achievement Medals, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, and numerous campaign and service medals.

Forest City firefighter Landon Holtsclaw is a nephew of Sgt. Benson.

8:30AM - Emergency Vehicle Display

9:00AM - Commemorative Music

10:00AM - Opening remarks, Posting of the Colors, National Anthem, Prayer, Speech, Closing remarks

Emergency Vehicle Display to follow ceremony.