United Heroes League’s Freedom Fest brought a crowd to its Hastings campus Friday, Sept. 11, for an evening of music, community and remembrance on the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
The event appeared well attended as visitors gathered for live music, food and activities, but organizers also had a surprise planned to mark the anniversary in a more visual way.
As darkness settled over the United Heroes League campus, two beams of light were illuminated near the American flag at the center of the Heroes Monument. The twin lights reached into the night sky, resembling the memorial beams displayed in New York City in remembrance of the World Trade Center towers.
The display added another element of reflection to an event that United Heroes League had planned around both celebration and remembrance. Freedom Fest was held to honor those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, recognize those who continue to serve and support the military members, veterans, first responders and families served by the Hastings-based nonprofit.
Members of the local VFW were also on hand to take part in the observance, performing a 21-gun salute during the evening.
Freedom Fest featured performances by Basic and Boring, Fistful of Ladies, Pipewrench and Good for Gary, along with food trucks, games and beverages.
Proceeds from the event support United Heroes League and its programs for military families. The organization provides sports equipment, camps, grants and experiences for military children and families across the country.
The combination of music and activities drew people together for the evening, while the twin beams and the VFW salute provided a solemn reminder of why the Sept. 11 date was chosen for this year’s Freedom Fest.