FORT SHAFTER, HAWAII -- Soldiers and Family members from the U.S. Army Pacific paid tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States during a retreat ceremony Sept. 10 at 4:30 p.m. on historic Palm Circle at Fort Shafter.
Lt. Gen. Benjamin R. Mixon, U.S. Army Pacific commanding general said the atrocities of Sept. 11, 2001, did not go unanswered by our nation.
"In response to the attacks, the United States entered the War on Terror, and soon Soldiers were serving in harm's way in Afghanistan, Iraq, and multiple other hot spots around the globe," Mixon said.
From late 2001 to present day, more than two million service members have deployed, including more than one million Soldiers. Those figures include multiple deployments, with some individuals being deployed five or more times to Afghanistan or Iraq.
"These warriors and their Families have made numerous sacrifices to preserve and defend the freedom and liberty for America and her allies," Mixon said. "And many of the brave warriors who answered their nation's call have paid the ultimate sacrifice, while many others bear the psychological and physical scars of war."
Mixon emphasized that the nation owes its servicemen and women a debt of gratitude for their efforts.
"Since that September day, nearly a decade ago, our Armed Forces have been repeatedly tested in the crucible of combat - and Soldiers have been called upon again and again to defend those values, such as loyalty, selfless service, and devotion to duty, that make our nation the land of the free and the home of the brave," Mixon said.
"Tomorrow, we, as Americans, will officially mark the Second National Day of Service and Remembrance. While we individually or collectively perform acts of service, we honor the memories of the victims of 9/11 and those who have valiantly served in the War on Terrorism."
Mixon challenged those present to take advantage of tomorrow's Day of National Service and Commitment to rededicate themselves to support the U.S. military and the nation's defense.
Brig. Gen. Michele G. Compton, commanding general of the 9th Mission Support Command at Fort Shafter, also focused on the commitment of U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers.
"Since the beginning of the current conflict, approximately 84 percent of the reservists assigned to the 9th Mission Support Command have deployed in overseas contingency operations. Nine of our Soldiers have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation," Compton said.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence and the lowering of the colors.
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