September 12, 2011 - The Houston Police Department would like to thank the public for the outpouring of support this past weekend commemorating the 10th anniversary of the terroristic attacks on September 11th.

Photos of a number of events in which HPD participated are attached to this news release.

The weekend began with a noon ceremony at City Hall last Friday (Sept. 9) with Houston Mayor Annise Parker, HPD Chief Charles A. McClelland, Jr. and Houston Fire Department Chief Terry Garrison taking part in a tribute and the laying of red carnations in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the attacks.

Later Friday evening, HPD Chief McClelland and the HPD Honor Guard joined members of the Houston Fire Department in a special memorial to those who died in the September 11th attacks.  Following remarks by Chief McClelland and HFD Chief Terry Garrison, the Dignity Memorial network (SCI) showed an outdoor premiere of “REBIRTH,” an award-winning documentary following the transformation of five people, over the course of seven years, whose lives were forever altered that by events that fateful day.

Sunday (Sept. 11) began with a 9/11 Heroes Run at Ellington Airport.  Starting at 9:03 a.m., more than two thousand people pounded the pavement as part of a 5K run/walk honoring the fallen.  More than 100 volunteers also donated their time to make the event a huge success.  Houston set the standard for all races held nationwide that support the Travis Manion Foundation.  The foundation was set up to honor a U.S. Marine killed in Iraq and helps wounded military members and their families.  A portion of the proceeds also went to the Assist the Officer Houston Foundation.

The Houston Texans also honored HPD and first responders during pre-game ceremonies at Sunday’s noon game at Reliant Stadium.  The HPD Honor Guard was proud to take part in the event.

Finally, there is one last honor tonight (Sept. 12) as HPD Lieutenant Harry Zamora will be among the first responders and military representatives to throw out the first pitch at the Astros “Heroes Night” just before the 7:05 p.m. game between the Astros vs. the Phillies.    Lieutenant Zamora received the HPD Medal of Valor this past summer for his efforts to save an elderly citizen from a burning car.

KJS/JKS/JFC  9-12-11