Texas Border Business
ALPINE, Texas – The U.S. Border Patrol Big Bend Sector held a commemoration ceremony to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
At the U.S. Border Patrol Station in Alpine, Texas the solemn remembrance ceremony included the lowering of the U.S. flag to half-staff as a tribute to the victims of the terrorist attacks, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying ceremony, a fly over of CBP and Texas Department of Public Safety helicopters and an address by U.S. Border Patrol Big Bend Acting Sector Chief Patrol Agent Josh Barrett.
Border Patrol agents, first responders, and community members gathered during the ceremony to pay tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
The ceremony was centered around a 1,300-pound piece of steel from the World Trade Center—a powerful symbol of the nation’s resilience. This artifact, the only one of its kind in the Big Bend Sector, has been a focal point of reflection and remembrance since its arrival at the Alpine Station in 2012. Twisted and scarred by the events of September 11, 2001, the steel now anchors the station’s 9/11 memorial.
The 9/11 artifact was brought to the Alpine Station through the dedicated efforts of former Border Patrol agents, local law enforcement officers, and the local community, who recognized the profound significance of securing a piece of history for the remote outpost. The team pursued the artifact with a commitment to ensuring that the sacrifices of Sept. 11, 2001, would not be forgotten in the Big Bend Sector. Their successful application to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees the distribution of World Trade Center artifacts, resulted in the delivery of the 1,300-pound piece of steel to Alpine, where it now serves as a powerful symbol of national resilience and remembrance.
“This year marks 25 years since the September 11 terrorist attacks on our country. Our 9/11 artifact memorial is a powerful reminder of why vigilance in national security is so important,” said Acting Chief Barrett. “It reminds us of the bravery and sacrifices made on 9/11 and strengthens our resolve to protect our nation and its citizens.”
