CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- It was a morning of recollection and contemplation for the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux community as two remembrance race events occurred on the 16th anniversary of September 11 at Chièvres Air Base, Belgium.
At 6 a.m., the U.S. Army 39th Strategic Signal Battalion hosted a Patriot Day remembrance ruck march. Over 40 Soldiers and family members marched along a 9.11-kilometer path as some wore over 40 pounds of gear.
"Commemorating 911 with a 9.11 kilometer road march was a tremendous opportunity for our Soldiers to reflect on why they choose to serve. Personally, I believe that I'm still in the uniform today because of what happened on that day," said Army Lt. Col. Nicholas Prisco, commander of the 39th Strategic Signal Battalion.
At 9:11 a.m., another remembrance event began as over 30 people gathered at the starting line for the Patriot Day Run hosted by Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. Participants ran or walked up to five kilometers along the air base.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Leandro Rocha was the second person to cross the finish line. He said he participates in races on commemorative holidays such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Patriot Day to honor the fallen.
"I remember when I was in Grafenwoehr, Germany, in 2001. We heard of the attacks when we were training. Family members were trying to contact us, but they couldn't," he said. "I could never forget that day."
Some runners brought their children to the event. Army spouse Gretchen Faunce ran the route while pushing her son in a stroller. Although her older children were in school, she said she typically brings them to commemorative races.
"It's important to bring our kids to these type of events," she said. "They weren't alive when 9/11 happened, but it's important for them to remember that day."
After the Patriot Day Run finished, participants gathered at the Chièvres Fitness Center for refreshments. Keamia Rasa Lucas, MWR fitness program specialist, reflected on the event.
"Sept. 11 is an important day to remember and respect. It was a good that people were able to come together in remembrance of it," she said. "I'm thankful for everyone who came out and supported the community."
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