Hosted by the Hickory, NC Elks Lodge #1654, the city of Hickory, NC observed the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on America on Monday, September 11, 2023 with a special ceremony in downtown Hickory. Planned and coordinated by the Hickory Elks Lodge Americanism Committee. Among the many participants were the Hickory area Community Choir performing patriotic and spiritual songs. Also performing music artist and Elks Lodge member, Nathan Hefner. Local radio station WHKY Hal Rowe, provided the 9/11 timeline of events of that horrific day on September 11, 2001. Color Guard was provided by cadets from Fred T Foard High School US Army JROTC program. Cadets from Hickory composite squadron, Civil Air Patrol, served as the flag detail. Serving as the military commander of troops was Elks Lodge member, Charlie Self of the US Air Force Retired. Elks Lodge members handed out American flags to the crowed to commemorate this observance.

This was the 16th year that the Hickory Elks Lodge has been involved in this annual remembrance ceremony.