A quarter of a century ago, America changed. Terrorist had waged an attack on American soil, and the shockwaves reach far across the nation.
But Americans who witnessed the tragedy have not forgotten, and Friday morning, dozens of First Responders and civilians gathered at the Ronnie A. Dixon City Park to remember that fateful day.
The morning began at Vidalia City Hall where participants embarked on a solemn Patriot Walk to the park where they entered through a reverent aisle flanked by local and state First Responders and Patriot Guards.
Vidalia Mayor Doug Roper said as the ceremony began, “I don’t know if we need a reminder of how quickly time goes, but to think we are here today to witness one of the most horrific attacks on our country is hard to believe. That day was the first time that I didn’t feel safe in our own country.”
He continued by addressing the First Responders who had gathered at the park, saying, “I’m convinced that many of those that entered those towers or other places that were attacked that day knew they weren’t coming home but they were willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice to try to save as many lives as possible. THAT is a hero! YOU are all heroes of our community!”
In memory of those who died in the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and in the Shanksville, PA, are in honor of the First Responders who have died since, Vidalia Fire Department Apparatus Operator Jonus Blackwell tolled the bell 25 times, one toll for each year since the attacks.
As those who had gathered prepared to disburse, Vidalia City Manager Josh Beck urged the attendees to remember the feelings in the immediate days that followed that tragic day.
“Let us remember how strong we were when we united in those days,” Beck said. “Too often we focus on what divides us: race, politics, religion. Remember how strong we were the next day when we became united and the power that is in there.”
Also participating in Friday morning’s remembrance were the Color Guard of the JROTC, a trumpeter with the Vidalia High School Soundtribe who played “Taps,” and a retired Naval veteran from Cobbtown.
