Cleveland Orchestra plays free concert to honor 9/11 victims, men and women who serve and protect

CLEVELAND - Rain threatened to put a damper on Cleveland's tribute to the victims of the Sept. 11 tragedy, but it was not to be.

The sun peaked out and the Cleveland Orchestra put on a show in front of thousands of people on Public Square.

It was an opportunity for people to gather around and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Cleveland Orchestra.

The event gave the audience an avenue to honor our men and women who don a uniform -- the people who protect and serve and keep us safe. It was also to pay tribute to the victims whose lives were cut short 10 years ago.

Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson introduced the orchestra, which played for about an hour.

The concert ended with God Bless America. The crowd was moved. Some shed tears.

Lisa Ford from Euclid decided to dress up as the Statue of Liberty. She said she thought it was important to come down and show support.

"What the country has been through for the last 10 years, the country needs something positive to help unite us," said Ford.