09/11/2026
25 years later, we remember.
September 11, 2001, changed our nation forever. We remember the innocent lives taken, the first responders who ran toward danger, and the countless acts of courage and compassion that followed.
Here at home, that compassion could be seen on the streets of Sweetwater. One of these photographs captures a Sweetwater citizen collecting donations on Main Street at a red light in the days following the attacks. In all, our community raised $14,384.61.
The other photograph shows former Sergeant Kenny Wilkins near Ground Zero after he, Chief Eddie Byrum, and former Captain Gary Newman traveled to New York — carrying with them the support of a small Tennessee town for a nation in mourning.
From Main Street to Ground Zero, these photographs remind us that although 25 years have passed, September 11 must never become just another page in history.
Remember their names. Remember their sacrifice. Remember how America stood together.
We will NEVER FORGET.
