No doubt every American remembers vividly the tragic moments of Sept. 11, 2001. Many members of the baking industry were here at IBIE. ­The expo closed that day, and the industry came together offering comfort and camaraderie. While most have healed in the 18 years since the attack, no one will forget.

Fred Springer, president, Burford Corp. and IBIE committee member: “It was disbelief. I only remember the sheer disbelief.”

Dennis Gunnell, president, Formost Fuji and IBIE committee member: “­The thing I remember most, aside from the tragedy, is how everyone came together to get people home to their loved ones. ­There was a scramble to get cars and get them filled so people could get home.”

Robin Alton, president and CEO, Pan-O-Gold Baking: “It was such an eerie feeling. It put a cloud over the show. Nothing was the same — at the show and in people’s lives. Looking forward, we remember, but here at the show today, we don’t let it cloud where we are today.”

Robb MacKie, president and CEO, American Bakers Association: “­The committee rightly believed we need to recognize it, but we also need to recognize the world has changed. But part of moving on is that we’re here to do business and support the industry. It shows the resilience of the country and the industry that we’re here so many years later, and stronger than ever.”

On Wednesday, the American flag will show on entrance screens for attendees to have a moment of remembrance.