PHOTOS: Flowers Scattered in Maui 9/11 Remembrance

Courtesy photo, Westin KOR.

By Wendy Osher

Hotel guests and associates at The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas gathered for a moment of silence on Wednesday to reflect upon the 12th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in memorial and remembrance of the lives lost and brave actions of first responders.

This was the third consecutive year that the hotel hosted the Patriot Day event.

The observance included a Hawaiian blessing led by resort cultural advisor Makalapua Kanuha, and chant conducted by Keliʻi Arruda.

Courtesy photo, Westin KOR.

Resort spokespersons say associates presented bowls filled with 2,977 blossoms to first responders and guests who volunteered to be part of a flower scattering ceremony offshore. The flowers represented the number of individuals who lost their lives, hotel officials said.

In a short address during the ceremony, resort general manager Angela Nolan thanked active and retired military personnel and their families including Maui’s own first responders, “for their heroism and sacrifices to help protect our country.”

In addition to first responders, other local dignitaries in attendance included Senator Roz Baker, Representative Angus McKelvey, Maui Fire Battalion Chief Amos Lonokailua-Hewett and Executive Assistant to the Mayor Zeke Kalua.

Courtesy photo, Westin KOR.

Courtesy photo, Westin KOR.