The 25th anniversary of 9-11 was commemorated at its annual location in Chillicothe and Ross County, Station #1 of the Chillicothe Fire Department.
A moderate crowd had gathered at 54 East Water Street for the brief 8:30am event, with the station’s gear on full display, on September 11th, 2026.
Below is the six-and-a-half minutes of Fire Chief Aaron Knotts’ remarks, the presentation of the wreath, placing of the flag, recognition of the deceased, and the “Strike the Signal.”
I also include a video of my 18 photos of the fire station and the setting of that day.
I had noticed that the “Safe Haven Baby Box” authorized by Chillicothe Council last last year had not been installed yet. “Designed with innovative safety features and installed on the exterior walls of fire stations and hospitals, each box ensures the safe and anonymous surrender of infants.”
I asked sponsoring council member Julie Preston who was in the crowd, and she clarified that funds were still being raised via St. Peter Catholic Church to pay for it.
Find the article on the Scioto Post.
Kevin Coleman covers local government and culture for the Scioto Post and iHeart Media Southern Ohio. For stories or questions, contact Kevin Coleman or the iHeart Southern Ohio Newsroom.
Fire Chief Aaron Knotts speaks, and ceremonies follow, in the 25th anniversary.
Photos of the fire station and its setting at the 25th anniversary of 9-11.
The handout for the commemoration: