Gov. Chris Gregoire returns home Sunday to attend a special 9/11 community commemoration at the Auburn Performing Arts Center.

Gregoire is scheduled to speak during the 90-minute program, which honors the memory of those who gave their lives 10 years ago and recognizes the energy and commitment of those who safeguard local communities today.

The rcommemoration begins at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at APAC, 700 E. Main St.

The public is invited to the program, which includes a free concert – the Auburn Symphony Orchestra performs “The Triumph of the American Spirit: A Community Commemoration.” The program is a tribute to South King County’s fire and police in commemoration of the valiant efforts of first responders surrounding the events of the 9/11 tragedy.

The orchestra, City of Auburn and Auburn School District sponsor the event.

“I am really pleased our community has come together to remember those lost in New York City, in Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon, on the 10th anniversary of the horrific attack on our entire nation,” said Eric Robertson, administrator for the Valley Regional Fire Authority. “I am even more proud we are pausing to recognize those public safety professionals who are still serving communities across this great nation, strengthening our American fabric and spirit.”

The event features music by the orchestra, conducted by Stewart Kershaw. Maya Angelou’s “Brave and Startling Truth” and the poignant “Playing for the Fighting 69th” highlight spoken presentations that include remarks by Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis; Al Church, president of the State Fire Chiefs; and John Batiste, Chief of the Washington State Patrol.

Admission is free. Seating is not reserved but a ticket is required. Tickets can only be obtained in person at the City of Auburn Parks, Arts, and Recreation building, 910 9th St SE, until 5 p.m. Friday. There is a limit of six to a family.

Tickets also will be available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.

Elsewhere

• The Daughters of the American Revolution, Lakota Chapter in Auburn, is presenting a specially-made 9/11 flag that commemorates the 10th anniversary to firefighters at VRFA Station 31, 1101 D St. NE, Auburn. The exchange is planned for 11:30 a.m. Saturday.

The red, white, white and blue flag represents the Twin Towers, Pentagon and Pennsylvania site of the 9/11 tragedy. Battalion Chief Tim Day and his crew will be on hand to receive the flag.

• The Auburn International Farmers Market, Auburn Sound Transit Plaza, 23 A St. SW, presents, Remembrance Day – For Country and Community, with opening ceremonies at 8:45 a.m. Sunday. The program includes the VFW Honor Guard presenting the opening Pledge of Allegiance, Children’s Dance Theatre performance, music, activities and a chili cook-off with proceeds benefitting the Auburn Food Bank.

• Messiah Lutheran Church, 410 H St. NE, Auburn, hosts a 9/11 remembrance, prayer and candlelight service at 7 p.m. Sunday. It is open to the community.