Remembering CeeCee Lyles: A Tribute to a Hero on 9/11
On September 11, 2024, the community of Fort Pierce, Florida, gathered to honor the memory of CeeCee Ross Lyles, a former police officer and flight attendant who tragically lost her life during the 9/11 attacks. This year marked the 23rd anniversary of the attacks, and the remembrance events highlighted Lyles' legacy and the impact she had on her community.
A Life Remembered
CeeCee Lyles was born and raised in Fort Pierce, where she attended Fort Pierce Westwood High School. After serving as a police officer in her hometown for six years, she transitioned to a career as a flight attendant with United Airlines. On that fateful day in 2001, Lyles was aboard United Airlines Flight 93, which was hijacked by terrorists and ultimately crashed in Pennsylvania. Her bravery during the hijacking is remembered as she attempted to communicate with her family and help fellow passengers.
Community Gatherings
The memorial service took place at Liberty Garden, a site that overlooks the Indian River Lagoon and features a life-sized bronze statue of Lyles. Her son, Jevon Castrillo, was present at the ceremony, reflecting on his mother's heroism and the profound loss felt by the family and community. For over two decades, family, friends, and first responders have gathered at this location to pay their respects and remember Lyles' contributions to her community and her ultimate sacrifice.
Honoring a Hero
The Fort Pierce community has made it a tradition to honor Lyles each year on September 11. This year, the ceremony included speeches from local leaders, moments of silence, and the sharing of memories that celebrate Lyles' life and legacy. The event serves not only as a remembrance of Lyles but also as a reminder of the resilience and unity that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks.
Media Coverage and Public Sentiment
The remembrance of CeeCee Lyles has garnered significant media attention, with various news outlets covering the events and sharing stories about her life. Articles from CBS12, WPTV, and TCPalm highlighted the emotional tributes paid to Lyles and the ongoing impact of her legacy on the community. The coverage emphasizes the importance of remembering those who lost their lives on 9/11 and the heroes who emerged from that tragic day.
Emotional Tributes
In addition to the memorial service, several articles and videos have been published that delve into the personal stories of Lyles' family. Her sons, Jevon and Jerome Smith, have spoken publicly about their mother’s legacy, describing her as a hero who continues to inspire them and their children. They express pride in being part of her story and the ongoing efforts to keep her memory alive.
The Legacy of CeeCee Lyles
CeeCee Lyles' legacy extends beyond her tragic death. She is remembered not only for her role as a flight attendant but also for her service as a police officer and her dedication to her community. The annual memorials serve as a testament to her impact and the love that her family and friends continue to hold for her.
A Call to Remember
As the community of Fort Pierce comes together each year to honor CeeCee Lyles, it serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering the past and the individuals who shaped it. The events surrounding September 11 are not just about loss but also about resilience, courage, and the enduring spirit of those who continue to fight for justice and peace.
The remembrance of CeeCee Lyles on September 11, 2024, encapsulates the spirit of a community that refuses to forget its heroes. As the years pass, the stories of bravery and sacrifice continue to resonate, ensuring that the legacy of CeeCee Lyles and others lost on that day will never fade. The annual gatherings at Liberty Garden are a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity and the importance of honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and well-being of others.
For more information and updates on CeeCee Lyles and the memorial events, you can visit the following links:
Let us continue to remember and honor the lives lost and the heroes who emerged from the tragedy of September 11, 2001.
