DANBURY, CONN. — The somber music of bagpipes as the University Police Color Guard enters the Quad will issue the call for members of the Western Connecticut State University and greater Danbury communities to pause on Thursday, Sept. 11, to remember the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks that claimed more than 3,000 lives in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania seven years ago.

Continuing an annual WestConn tradition introduced in the aftermath of the tragedy in 2001, Professor of Justice and Law Administration Dr. David Machell will perform a reflective bagpipe piece to set the tone for “A Solemn Ceremony of Remembrance,” beginning at noon on the Midtown campus Quadrangle, 181 White St. in Danbury. Admission is free and the public is invited to join WestConn students, faculty and staff in this outdoor ceremony, weather permitting.

Machell’s performance of “Amazing Grace” will signal the entry of the officers of the Color Guard led by University Police Chief Neil McLaughlin, who will proceed to a position at the center of the Quad. WestConn President James W. Schmotter will offer words of welcome and opening remarks, with Assistant Professor of Justice and Law Administration Terrence Dwyer presenting a narrative reading in remembrance of the victims of the 9/11 attacks.

At the conclusion of the program, Machell will perform a bagpipe variation of the patriotic song “God Bless America” as the Color Guard marches in silent procession departing the Quad.

For more information, call the Office of University Relations at (203) 837-8486.

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.