JACKSONVILLE, Ala. -- About 300 people gathered Sept. 11 at the Jacksonville City Cemetery for a memorial service to remember and honor those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks 10 years ago.
Guest speaker, Lt. Gen. Richard P. Formica, commanding general, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command, along with his wife Diane, Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Turner, Sgt. Maj. John Mattie, and others from the command came to represent active, National Guard and Reserve Soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and civilians who defend freedom today.
Formica thanked members of the community for attending the service, which also paid special tribute to Army Maj. Dwayne Williams, a Jacksonville native who died while serving in the Pentagon during the terrorist attacks.
During the ceremony, Formica thanked the parents of Williams for sharing their son with the United States of America and for his service.
"On behalf of America and all who serve, we extend our most sincere and genuine sympathies on your loss of Dwayne 10 years ago today," he said. "We know we can never repay you, but we will not forget."
Formica reflected on all those who lost their lives and how that day forever changed the world as we know it.
"Today America reflects on 10 years since she was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001," said Formica. "In ceremonies like this across America, we will pause to remember those who were lost in the attacks, to keep faith with those families who lost loved ones, and to express our appreciation to those who continue to serve on our behalf.
"The day after the attacks, America was united in anger, pride and resolve," he said. "And in the months following those attacks, America's streets were lined with American flags in solidarity for the victims who were killed that day. Our nation was united and filled with pride.
"On the 10th anniversary of 9/11, we are again united as we remember the lives that were lost that day and as we honor the life and service of Maj. Dwayne Williams," Formica said. "Dwayne represents five million Americans who have served in our Armed Forces these past 10 years. We also reflect on the military spouses and children who are a part of this decade of war. We remember parents and relatives who have paid the heavy price of the sacrifice of their loved ones. We also remember our first responders."
Formica thanked the community for gathering to remember Dwayne's life and to honor the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
"This is what America is all about," Formica said. "God bless Jacksonville, Ala. God Bless the U.S. Army and all those who serve, and God bless the United States of America."
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