HOHENFELS, Germany -- Twelve years after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Americans across the globe spent a day of remembrance, honoring those who have sacrificed so much that day and in the years since that tragic event.
The Hohenfels Military Community paid tribute with a five kilometer "Remembrance Run," embodying President Barack Obama's words: "There's no better way to honor the best in those that died than by discovering the best in ourselves."
"The Hohenfels Community has been affected directly and remains directly affected today by the events of that day," said Lt. Col. John J. Strange Jr., U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels commander.
Strange reminded participants of the 16 Hohenfels Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Global War on Terrorism, as well as the 27 community members currently deployed and the families left behind.
"Today's event is called a 'Run to Remember.' Everyone here has someone or something to remember -- people, friends or family who have been lost, personal sacrifices you've observed or suffered, or the way our world has changed," he said.
"Remembering is a part not only of grieving, but of also resolving to become stronger every day," Strange added.
Hundreds of community members took part in the event including Soldiers, civilians, spouses, children, and even pets.
"I just think it's important that we pay tribute to those that have fallen," said 1st Sgt. Luis Perez, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Joint Multinational Training Center. "That wasn't the first terrorist attack … but it's changed the lives of a lot of people."
Delta Company of the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, ran the race in formation, carrying their unit flag and calling cadences.
"We don't get a lot of time to do things like this as a company because of our work schedules," said 1st Sgt. Victor Haven, Delta Co., 1-4th Inf. Regt. "So an event like this, especially for the 9-11 remembrance day, it means a lot."
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