Residents gathered at Warren County Memorial Park on Tuesday morning to mark the 11th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
"Today is a day of remembrance as we reflect on the event of that horrendous morning eleven years ago," Ed Seebeck said in opening statements. "It was a Tuesday morning, much like today, except that it changed the world forever. The flags on the hill behind us fly in memory of almost 3,000 people killed in the attack. They also represent those that have died or are dealing with illness because of toxic exposure during cleanup at ground zero and the Pentagon. Today we come together to remember. We also have the opportunity and great privilege to celebrate and honor our everyday heroes, friends, family, neighbors who give selflessly to protect our lives and property here in Warren County. Today we tell them thank you for your dedication and commitment."
The Rev. Carling Moore of Wesleyan Church of Warren gave the prayer and Paul Lauffenburger led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
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Photo by Ben Klein
Law enforcement personnel stand at attention as flags are lowered to half-staff during Patriot Day ceremonies at Warren County Memorial Park.
"This day we remember the horrific loss and and the heroic sacrifice in the face of overwhelming circumstances..." Moore said.
The Youngsville High School choir, led by Christ Montgomery, sang the National Anthem.
Warren County Commissioner Chairman Stephen Vanco read a proclamation in commemoration of the 11th anniversary.
"Whereas it has been 11 years since the unimaginable became believable..." Vanco said.
"Whereas daily in Warren County the dedicated firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians, fire police and other public servants are on call for whatever emergency rises, and whereas Warren County remembers those 3,031 lives lost Sept. 11, 2001, we honor these men and women who help keep us safe."
Youngsville Elementary Middle School sixth grade student Taylor Haight won third place in the essay contest. Rachel Beatty from Warren County Christian School won second, and Ellie McCluskey from Youngsville Elementary Middle School won first place.
Historian Tim Greenland discussed the history of the Sheffield and Russell fire departments.
"Ladies and gentlemen, can we please say thank you to these gentlemen - Gary Borden, Rich Barrett for the leadership in their departments, the service of their departments and for all that they do to keep us safe," Ruth Seebeck, September 11 Project coordinator, said.