Finding a tribute to the fallen firefighters of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, absent from the community's calendar, Sonic Manager David Wyatt decided to organize one.
"It's another Memorial Day in my book, so I wanted to do something," he said.
As a firefighter at College of the Ozarks and then Western Taney County, Wyatt had been involved with the annual ceremony.
He's not creating something new, he's mirroring what he observed elsewhere, the volunteer with the California Rural Fire Department said.
The first-time Sept. 11 Tribute in California will begin at 6 p.m. in front of City Hall. Planning is on hold until school resumes, he said. Wyatt hopes to have participation from California High School band and speech and debate programs.
Fire trucks from the California City and California Rural fire departments will be on display, as will the American flag.
The names of the 343 firefighters who died in the terrorist attacks will be read, as well as a brief history of the event 17 years ago.
For those who may be inclined to give at the event, proceeds will benefit the Moniteau County Toys for Tots program.
"By these firefighters being remembered, it will help somebody else somewhere," Wyatt said.
A freewill donation meal may be served. That is still being considered.
Volunteers from the California Area Chamber of Commerce have joined a committee to help Wyatt organize what he hopes will become an annual event.
To donate or volunteer, call 501-253-3437.