On The Wings of Angels, Omaha

On the Wings of Angels is a public memorial created by Omaha sculptor Littleton Alston to honor the victims and heroes of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Dedicated on September 11, 2007, the sculpture resulted from a partnership involving the City of Omaha, Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society, Mayor Mike Fahey, private sponsors, and community participants.

Rather than serving as a general monument, its purpose is to commemorate the events of 9/11 and the public response to the tragedy. Standing about 16 feet tall, the sculpture is constructed from stainless steel and bronze. More than 300 people allowed molds to be taken of their hands, which were cast in bronze and incorporated into the artwork. These hands form a large sphere held within a sweeping stainless-steel framework, symbolizing people joining together in remembrance and support. Instead of depicting traditional angel wings, the design combines abstract metal forms with the recognizable sphere of bronze hands. The memorial stands on the grounds of Omaha City Hall and includes an inscription identifying it as the On the Wings of Angels 9/11 Memorial. A marker records the dedication date and recognizes the participants whose hand casts became part of the sculpture.

Visitors can examine the bronze hands that form its centerpiece while reflecting on the collective effort behind its creation. The artwork remains a lasting public tribute, transforming many individual contributions into a shared memorial honoring those affected by September 11.