Pepperdine's 9/11 Memorial Ceremony features guest speaker Chris Pratt. Guests can walk through the Wave of Flags display before or after the ceremony

About the display: Each year, Pepperdine fills its green hillside on PCH with 2,977 flags, to commemorate the victims of the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. The vision of thousands of flags flapping in unison in the sea breeze is beautiful, inspiring, and memorable, and can be a great way to introduce the idea of a 9/11 memorial to children.

There is nothing explicit—just rows upon rows of flags—so parents can explain as they deem appropriate. Either way, the image makes an impact. And wandering between the vast number of flags on the windy hillside is a novel outing, with or without explanation.

In addition, a commemorative ceremony is held on 9/11 at 9am. This year, the University welcomes a distinguished honoree and speaker, actor and producer Chris Pratt, who shares his remarks on the historic occasion. The ceremony also features remarks from president Jim Gash and director of Student Veteran Affairs Eric Leshinsky. 

The 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is closed to the public, and registration is required to attend.

Flags are on display from September 2 through September 21, 2023