Today is the 20th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, and Knoxville organizations will host events to commemorate the occasion.

Knoxville Fire and Rescue and the Knoxville Township Rural Fire Department will host a free-will donation meal this afternoon on the Knoxville square. Firetrucks and ambulances will be on display. The meal provided by the Knoxville Rotary Club runs from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on the east side of the square. A formal presentation begins at 4:00. Proceeds raised will go toward a 9/11 memorial. KNIA/KRLS, the Knoxville Rotary Club, and Marion County Bank are sponsoring the event. The KNIA/KRLS Lil’ Big Red Radio will be on site to play music and make announcements.

Also today, the Knoxville VFW will host a free-will offering chili meal from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Opening ceremonies will include the Pledge of Allegiance, a prayer, a Patriot Day speech, and a moment of silence. Proceeds from this event will benefit local first responders. Football will be shown on the TV’s in the VFW hall.