To our friends and neighbors,
As September 11, 2025, approaches, Laura and I wanted to share an update on the 9-11 Honor and Serve Foundation.
First, and with heavy hearts, we need to let you know that we will not be hosting a full 9-11 ceremony this year. Despite our best efforts, too many logistical obstacles arose to make it possible to hold a ceremony in the meaningful and dignified way that you, the day itself, and those we honor deserve. This was not an easy decision, but we remain committed to ensuring that when we gather, it is with the depth of respect and remembrance the day calls for.
You may recall that last year we relocated the Benghazi Memorial Monument from its place of origin to Foundation co-founder Doug Averill’s farm for the 2024 ceremony. At the time, the plan was to make that its permanent home. Plans change, however—and in this case, we believe for the better. Our hope now is to return the monument to its original and breathtaking home at the Elk Preserve, on the grounds of Doug’s Flathead Lake Lodge.
As you can imagine, moving the monument is no small task. It requires careful planning, heavy equipment, a flatbed trailer, a reliable truck, and, perhaps most importantly, the patience and support of our community as it slowly makes its way seven miles down Highway 35. Hoisting it onto the trailer and back into place at the Elk Preserve also calls for creative thinking, skilled hands, and a lot of teamwork.
But as we like to say—if we moved it once, we can move it again! We are already working with Scott, who originally created the monument and assisted with the move last year, to ensure it is safely returned to its home at the Elk Preserve before September 11th.
