Because memories fade over generations, we build monuments so we never forget.
This memorial was created by Knoxville artist, Randy Vaden and dedicated by the citizens of Knoxville, Tennessee on September 11, 2003.
As the tragedies of that morning unfolded and the horror of the events became fully known, Randy was deeply moved by the stories that the victims' families bravely shared with the world, of their loved ones who would never come home. He felt compelled to create something to honor the memory of the victims and mark that day in history for all time.
When the City of Knoxville and Knox County Tennessee officials met to plan the ceremony for the anniversary of the terrorists attacks, they felt that a permanent memorial was needed. A plan was developed, a site was chosen and a memorial design competition was initiated.
Mr. Vaden's design was selected from the entries and he was commissioned to build the city's permanent Memorial.
I wanted to build something uplifting that pays respect to the people not the wreckage. Each life that was lost that day deserves its special place of honor.
