FAYETTEVILLE, TENNESSEE -- Never forget. That message resounded in large and small ceremonies throughout the country Sept.11. It was also the theme of the Fayetteville/Lincoln County Day of Remembrance.
"Today, as we reflect on the past and remember and pray for the brave victims who lost their lives, let us be mindful and thankful for these great Americans," said U.S. Army Materiel Command Deputy Chief of Staff Brig. Gen. Edward Daly, who served as the keynote speaker.
Fayetteville Mayor John Ed Underwood and Lincoln County Mayor Tom Newman organized the event to honor the nearly 3,000 men, women and children who lost their lives 13 years ago.
"We need to remember those folks who have fallen to the terrorists' hands and continue to think about all those innocent people who had gone to work or on a visit and never made it back to their loved ones," Underwood said.
With the United States flag as a backdrop, Sheriff Murray Blackwelder and Fayetteville Police Chief Richard Howell recognized area first responders.
"These people want nothing other than to come to your aid," Blackwelder said. "It's an honor to be among their ranks."
Daly also recognized the first responders and pointed out the veterans in the audience.
"These selfless servants here today are part of a special group and represent the millions who have served and continue to place their lives on the line as members of the profession of arms."
Since Sept 11, 2001, more than 6,000 service members have lost their lives supporting the war on terror, Daly said.
"It's fair to say that over the past 13 years, all of us have sacrificed -- as individuals, as communities, and as a nation," he said. "The attacks are still personal as the vivid memories of the World Trade Center and Pentagon remain etched in our minds and hearts forever."
The tragedy also infused American's with pride and patriotism and reinvigorated a spirit of service, resolve and resiliency, Daly said -- a resiliency demonstrated in the rebuilt Pentagon and New York's Freedom Tower.
"These are a visible message to our enemies abroad to never underestimate the power and resolve of the American people."
Daly closed by asking the audience to join him in paying tribute to not only the victims of 9/11, but to those serving in the military who lost their lives during the past decade.
"I would also ask that you also remember today our men and women in uniform who continue to serve and shoulder the heavy burden of adapting to the challenges of war which are unimaginable to most," he said. "They serve as true patriots each day, defending our country with untiring devotion. Remember what they have done for our nation, what their sacrifices symbolize."
Around 100 residents, including local law enforcement, firemen, first responders and Boy Scouts attended the event.
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