Bluffton shares message of hope on 9/11

Bluffton, S.C. (WSAV)—Bluffton’s Veteran Memorial served as the heart of a touching ceremony on Wednesday morning.

Residents gathered at Buckwalter Place Park to reflect on the sacrifices made by first responders and the innocent lives lost in the Sept. 11 Twin Tower attacks.

Among the attendees was Patrick O’Brien, who came to honor his late father, a retired New York City firefighter who shared a birthday with the tragic attacks. Patrick shared how deeply the events of 9/11 had affected his father, and now him.

“My father is a retired New York City fireman,” O’Brien said, “and he died back in January. 9/11 devastated him. He never celebrated his birthday again.”

While the day was filled with somber reflection, it also introduced a new element designed to uplift the community, a volunteer fair. Bluffton Mayor, Larry Toomer, highlighted the importance of unity and positive action it would bring.

“We must focus on what brings us together, not what tears us apart,” Toomer said. “The volunteer fair is a chance to connect with local organizations and programs that make a real difference in the Bluffton community.”

The new volunteer fair allowed residents to connect on a personal level with each other and with the organizations that make a positive impact in Bluffton. Patrick O’Brien took the opportunity to engage with firefighters and others, sharing his father’s story and finding a meaningful way to honor his memory.

“I thought today would be a good day to meet some firemen, maybe people from New York, and share my father’s story, honoring him in some way,” O’Brien said.

First responders at the event expressed their gratitude for the community’s support.

“We have people telling us all the time how much they appreciate what we do, but we appreciate the support,” Public Information Officer for the Bluffton Fire Department (BFD) Steven Combs said. “It helps us do our job more effectively and efficiently every day.”

Toomer said that Bluffton will continue this memorial and volunteer fair annually, choosing to honor the selfless victims of 9/11 with a spirit of community and service. On this day of remembrance, Bluffton demonstrates that even in the face of tragedy, they can come together to support each other and build a stronger, more connected community.