It was a beautiful day 14 years ago and the same was the setting for the 1st Annual 9/11 Commemorative Ceremony Hosted by the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War at the Outer Banks Event Site. With the backdrop of a setting sun, blue skies and the Albemarle Sound it was hard not to feel a connection back to that September day 14 years prior.
As you pulled into the event center, you could not miss the American Flag being displayed from two firetrucks’ outreached aerial ladders from local fire departments. In fact there was representation from fire and police departments from all over the Outer Banks’ communities, including Dare County’s MEDEVAC helicopter. The very people who service our community everyday stood in their uniforms ready to be called on, like the day our homeland was attacked.
On Friday, a resilient community looked to the future while honoring the past. The service started with an opening prayer by Chaplain Cherri Wheeler and Pledge of Allegiance by Chaplain Richard Probst. The National Anthem was performed by the students of Club Violin, with attendees joining in, singing the anthem. Tammy Baker-Hamilton of the American Legion, dedicated plants in remembrance of lost ones to families, with toll of the bell with the names read.
“While that day was meant to tear our Country apart, it has brought us closer together as we remember and celebrate the lives of the people our Country lost on 9/11/2001.” said Kelli Harmon who coordinated the event.