First Responders Park

I am so proud to live in a city that has such a beautiful park dedicated to the First Responders and victims of 9/11.  The park was opened and dedicated on September 11, 2010 and is a cornerstone of the community.

First Responders Park Memorial

Why First Responders Park Memorial?

Vowing that "we will never forget", the City of Hilliard, Ohio is installing one of the largest memorials in the country to pay tribute to first responders everywhere and to insure the events of 9/11 are remembered forever.  With this theme as a focal point, the city will install the park like setting at the southwest corner of Main and Center Streets in Old Hilliard, an area representing a typical American City.

"We will never forget" is a theme that resonates with so many Americans as the great sacrifice of those who died in the shadow of the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania.  While the Memorial will be located in the Midwestern city of Hilliard, it will be dedicated to the first responders nationwide and carry the message that no matter where one lives, all Americans are stakeholders in the events that unfolded on 9/11.  Features of the memorial will include a reflecting pool, three memorial walls, personalized pavers, and more.  The focal piece will be a unique sculpture combining elements of light and shadow so that images depicting 9/11 will be cast.  A new element will be added to the sculpture each year, making it an ever evolving piece of art that stays fresh in the public's mind.

Who it Honors

The Memorial will honor first responders of every branch who responded to the tragic events on 9/11 and to honor them as individuals who offer up their own safety and security in order to protect our citizens.  The commemorative park is being designed as a destination spot where residents from across the nation will be invited to visit and remember.  First Responders Park will allow every person in every walk of life to view the memorial as his or her own personal tribute to those who defend, protect and display acts of heroism for the people of America.

Funding

The City of Hilliard First Responders Park Memorial Fund was established in 2008.  The fund was created to provide financing and generate funding specifically earmarked for the First Responders Park Memorial.  Your donations to the Fund make this project possible.  Please stop by our Municipal Building offices to make a donation.  To purchase a paver or other engravable fixture to be placed in the park, click on the Order Form - Engraved Fixtures in Park link.

I was there for the dedication in 2010 and I visit the park often.  We have taken Bug-A-Boo several times and it serves as a way to open up a discussion with children about the horrible and world-changing events of that day in a way that focus on the bravery of the not only the First Responders but also the victims.

On the 10th anniversary of 9/11 we will be at The First Responders Park to reflect and honor the brave men, women and children who lost their lives on that day.