MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- We all remember that chilling morning. Some of us were in school, too young to fully comprehend what was happening; while some of us were at work, capable of understanding the magnitude of the situation. Regardless of age, the images of fire and smoke are impossible to erase from memory.
It is a moment in history that re-defined generations with the profound impact it had on our worldviews. An attack that shook the nation, shattering our sense of safety, ultimately brought us together as one American family.
On a clear Tuesday morning, on September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people were victims of a coordinated attack against the Unites States and its values. More than 400 of these victims were first responders and emergency workers.
In honor of those who died during the attacks, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, will host a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at 8:30 a.m. September 11, 2017, at the U.S. Special Operations Command Memorial.
“September 11th is a day that will forever remain etched in our memories,” said Col. April Vogel, commander of the 6th Air Mobility Wing. “But as we mourned and coped with the horrors of these attacks, we recognized that for all of our differences, we are all Americans. This is why we must honor the memory of those we lost that fateful day.”
The ceremony, the first joint remembrance event here, will include a ceremonial ringing of the bell followed by a wreath laying.
The ceremonial ringing of the bell in memory of those who died in the line of duty is a tradition of the fire services that reflects respect and honor. A distinctive bell ringing marks the end of an emergency and a return to quarters.
“It means a lot to have the opportunity to be a part of this great tradition and honor the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives that day,” said Qaudrick Haynes, a fire protection journeyman assigned to the 6th Civil Engineer Squadron, who volunteered to participate as the ceremonial bell ringer.
Wreaths have traditionally been laid on graves in memory of the dead. These flower arrangements speak to the beauty and brevity of life, while evoking memories of loved ones. This is a tradition that is understood throughout different languages and cultures.
“It is important to recognize those who have fallen and remember their bravery,” said Staff Sgt. Vernon Fowler, the ceremony event coordinator assigned to the 6th Air Mobility Wing.
Whether too young to comprehend or old enough to understand, the events that transpired on September 11, 2001, have affected us all. Undoubtedly, everyone at this ceremony will remember those who have known the stark reality of living without a loved one and to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. They will not be forgotten.