LEXINGTON, Ky. — As the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Lexington is honoring those lost and the sacrifices made in the years that followed with a series of commemorative events throughout the day.

The Lane Report noted that nearly 3,000 people lost their lives in the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and aboard United Airlines Flight 93, with thousands more injured and countless communities forever changed by the tragedy.

The University of Kentucky's Air Force ROTC programs, in coordination with UK Pershing Rifles, are hosting a memorial vigil that began at 8:46 a.m. on the front lawn of UK's Main Building, marking the moment the first plane struck the North Tower. The vigil will continue through 6 p.m., with ROTC cadets and members of Pershing Rifles reading the names of those who died in the attacks.

Hundreds of people gathered at Kroger Field on Thursday for the Lexington Fire Department's annual memorial stair climb, climbing 1,500 steps representing the same number first responders took during the attacks. A memorial will be held Friday morning at the fallen firefighter and police memorial in Phoenix Park, with a ceremony beginning at 9 a.m. that will include a wreath-laying, ringing of bells and a flag lowering.

Among those climbing was an FDNY Rescue One firefighter who was at the towers on Sept. 11 and returned to mark the anniversary at the Lexington event. Maria Oney, LFD assistant chief, said the generational importance of the day resonated with participants. "Coming out, climbing the stairs, you know, doing an action to remember and to honor is what everybody is doing here today," Oney said.

The Lane Report emphasized remembering not only the tragic losses, but also the extraordinary courage displayed in the aftermath, noting how Americans responded to one another in unimaginable tragedy, with communities gathering together and volunteers offering support.

Lexington will formally dedicate the Global War on Terror Memorial at 2 p.m. at Veterans Park, 650 Southpoint Drive, honoring nine local service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Global War on Terror. The memorial provides a permanent place for families, veterans and future generations to remember those whose service came at the highest cost.