ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. — The Aberdeen Proving Ground community gathered Thursday to mark the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with a 24-hour “Moving Flag Tribute.”
The tribute began at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center, with a solemn ceremony at the installation’s fire station. U.S. Army Garrison APG Commander Col. Troy Johnson addressed first responders at the APG North Fire Station, praising their sacrifice and commitment.
“Your rigorous training, unwavering dedication, and willingness to put yourselves in harm’s way are a direct reflection of the courage displayed on that day,” Johnson said.
Following the ceremony, participants began carrying the American flag along a 1.2-mile route on post. Volunteers, including Soldiers, civilians, first responders and tenant organizations, signed up for 30-minute shifts to ensure the flag remained in constant motion for the full 24 hours. Organizers estimated about 250 people took part.
The walk was organized by the Aberdeen Proving Ground Police Captain Eric Ouimette, with support from U.S. Army Garrison – APG Headquarters and Headquarters Company, the Public Affairs Office and the Garrison Chaplain. Police officers provided traffic safety, the chaplain offered an invocation, and volunteers coordinated sign-ups and logistics.
Chief of Police Robert Frutchey helped bring the idea to APG after similar events were held at Picatinny Arsenal. Leaders embraced it as a way to unite the community in remembrance.
“It was inspiring to see that 24 years after September 11, so many people were still committed to come out and support the remembrance of that tragic day,” Capt. Ouimette said.
U.S. Airforce Technical Sergeant Matthew Fenner, from 18 Combat Weather Squadron, Detachment 3 who was at APG for a temporary duty assignment, helped walk the flag around the course. Tech. Sgt, Fenner reports “…honestly, we saw someone walking the flag by themselves, so two colleagues and I joined in – because nobody should carry go at it alone.” Further, he explained “It always feels good to share the experience with others and show that we remember…”
The atmosphere along the route was both solemn and uplifting. Volunteers described pride and emotion as they carried the flag. Passing motorists honked in support, while one participant shared that his father had responded as a firefighter to the first tower in New York City.
DES officials said the passing of the flag was symbolic of their mission: when one responder falls, another stands ready to “carry the flag.”
“There were many moving moments from start to finish of the event,” an organizer said. “Together we march so we never forget.”
Plans are already underway to make the Moving Flag Tribute an annual tradition at Aberdeen Proving Ground.
The tribute was also part of the garrison’s wider effort to honor service and sacrifice. On Sept. 11, 2025, APG also recognized military retirees, remembered the thousands of lives lost in the attacks and paid homage to the emergency service personnel who displayed selflessness and bravery in the aftermath.
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