Other notable officials were also in attendance, including state Rep. Erin Zwiener, D-Driftwood; U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin; Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra; and the Hays County commissioners.
"We're on the 21st anniversary of the day my generation really lost their innocence and a day that many brave first responders ran into tumbling towers to try and save lives," Zwiener said.
The event was kicked off by a procession of honor guards, the raising of the flag, a performance of the National Anthem and moments of silence for all the lives lost.
“The park is a result of countless hours of dedication and hard work. Every project has a beginning, and it started with past council member and veteran David Wilson,” Council Member Robert Rizo said. “He was determined that Kyle build a memorial to honor service members from Kyle who paid the ultimate sacrifice."
Wilson helped secure initial funding that was followed by a $1.5 million donation from Texas Disposal Systems. Heroes Memorial Park broke ground in part of the city’s Brick and Mortar District, a 138-acre mixed-use area, that broke ground in May 2021.
"My hope and prayer is for this park to be a cornerstone in Kyle for many years to come," Mayor Travis Mitchell said. "May it serve as a gathering place for thousands of residents and visitors each and every year; from this year until long after the time capsule is open in 2101 at the 100th anniversary of 9/11."
Mitchell and Rizo presented and dropped in the time capsule near the flag pole, filled with interviews of local veterans.
The park features a bridge over water, memorial gardens, educational information about the seven branches of government and more.
