GUSTINE — A large gathering of residents came together Thursday evening for the 24th Annual 9/11 Memorial Walk, a candlelight procession honoring the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
The walk began at Coast Hardware on Fifth Street and ended at the Gustine Police Department, where a brief ceremony was held. This year’s turnout included a strong showing from local youth, many of whom were born years after the tragedy. Participants included the Gustine High football and volleyball teams, Gustine FFA, Youth Football, Santa Nella and Gustine 4-H, the Gustine Rotary, Woman’s Auxiliary, VFW members, city council, and residents from across the Westside.
“This year’s walk was one of the most memorable yet,” said Zachery Ramos, founder of the Gustine Traveling Library, which now organizes the event. “Together, we keep the promise to never forget.”
Gustine Councilmember Rich Ford reflected on the generational shift in attendance. “I see a good group here, especially young adults, high school kids, younger kids, elementary school kids here to remember 9/11,” Ford said. “The biggest difference between this memory today and the memory of it from 24 years ago is that our nation came together after 9/11 — and now our nation is coming apart. I think we need to come back together like we did after that day.”
Gustine Fire Chief Richard Martin said the anniversary continues to carry deep meaning. “Over the last 48 hours, I’ve caught myself reflecting on what this all means,” Martin said. “We talk about remembering and never forgetting, but our media has scrubbed just about everything off the news and social media so you can forget — and you won’t remember.”
Organizers thanked Tiffany Vitorino, Garett Gomes, and Jose Flores for their help setting up at the Police and Fire Department, and credited the Gustine Police Department along with the Gustine and Newman Fire Departments for ensuring safety and guiding the procession.
The walk remains a cornerstone of Gustine’s civic tradition, reminding the community — especially its youngest members — of the importance of remembrance and unity.
