Local News

Somber notes of ‘Taps’ unites U.S. on 9/11

Local musicians, such as Gary Finger, a member of the Kinzua Area Community Band, plan to play "Taps," the 24-note melody that has honored fallen service members for more than 150 years.

Taps Across America is a nationwide tribute dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of our fallen military heroes. Founded in 2020 by retired Air Force bugler Jari Villanueva, Co-Founder of Taps for Veterans, this powerful tradition began as a way to bring Americans together during the pandemic. Instead of parades and public ceremonies, thousands of musicians -- professional and amateur alike -- took to their front porches and local landmarks to sound Taps in unison.

This movement continues to grow, ensuring that no sacrifice is forgotten.

In a time when our nation comes together for the past 25 years to remember 9/11, local musicians are encouraging anyone with a trumpet, trombone, saxophone, clarinet or flute to join together in playing "Taps," uniting the country in a shared moment of honor, remembrance, and reflection.

Taps will be played during the times on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, when the attacks were made:

-- 8:46 a.m. -- Flight 11 hit the north tower.

-- 9:03 -- Flight 175 hit the south tower.

-- 9:37 -- Flight 77 hit the Pentagon.

-- 9:59 -- South tower collapsed.

-- 10:03 -- Flight 93 went down in Shanksville.

-- 10:28 North tower collapsed.

Playing “Taps” near a flagpole or firehouse is a meaningful way to observe Patriot Day. During the 60-second melody, proper etiquette requires civilians to place their right hand over their heart, while those in uniform render a formal salute. This posture should be held for the full duration of the song, lowering only after the final note fades.