Public reaction
This section includes comments about this memorial from public officials, victim's families who visited the memorial, and members of the public.
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"I think one of the things we learned on that horrible day two years ago was just how equal and connected we all really are. The terrorists knew no difference between one victim and the next – and as people it helped remind us of how united we really are.
But while we grieve as a nation, there are people from our community for whom September 11th was a personal loss, and I want to acknowledge their presence. We truly hope this memorial will touch them and help them know how much we all want to support them."
Knox County Mayor Mike Ragsdale
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"We are so grateful and fortunate to have met you (and your family) and everyone who came to your studio to work and make us feel welcome and supported.
This Sept 11 was sad and emotional.
It will always be so for us.
It was also positive and healing; we felt blessed, warmed, and encircled by community.
That the memorial is not just for Tim, but for all those that died that day is all the more meaningful for us; that is how Tim would have wanted it too."
Glenda Kirk and Bruce Haviland,
Bruce Haviland’s brother, Tim died 9/11
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Kate Lenoir of Knoxville clutched a picture of her brother, Rob Lenoir, who died in the World Trade Center as she traced her fingers over his name on the memorial.
"The memorial is just an awesome thing, I hope people won’t forget what happened."
She also took a moment to remember the soldiers fighting overseas. "My heart goes out to all of them who are fighting for our country and our freedom," she said.
Kate Lenoir, whose brother Rob died 9/11
"I’m grateful that you chose to use your gifts and talents to inspire – they won’t be forgotten."
Pat Lenoir, whose son Rob died 9/11
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"I think it’s beautiful," says Knoxville citizen Roseanne Wolf. "It reminds me of the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building and it reminds me of the people that lost their lives, too."
The Knoxville Central High School choir placed flags at the memorial.
One little boy placed a crayon drawing of the twin towers at the memorial base.
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"I feel like it happened yesterday. If I was in the 9/11 crash I would look down out of heaven and say thank you Mr. Vaden.
If I wasn't and if I meet you I would say thank you."
Davey Kennedy, 5th grader
Knoxville, Tennessee
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"Randy has helped me bring closure to this, I feel like I have helped build something that is not only a tribute to my brother but also to those who lost someone."
Bruce Haviland
