KENNEWICK, Wash. – The City of Kennewick and Southridge Sports and Events Complex hosted their annual commemoration event for the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

Isaac Merkl from the Kennewick Police Department shared his personal reflections on the day, noting the impact the attacks had on him as a young man and now as a 20-year law enforcement veteran.

“I can still remember my father who was a 30-year police officer in Moses Lake, coming through the room, waking me up and telling me about what had just occurred,” said Merkl. “Just watching the coverage that day and feeling how it impacted me… and here we are now. this is still a very impactful day.”

Merkl emphasized the importance of community service and protection, highlighting the sacrifice of nearly 441 first responders who died

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