Remembering 9/11
FORT SHAFTER — Members from the U.S. Army-Pacific flag detail lower the American flag during the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at historic Palm Circle, Sept. 9. (Photo by Spc. Tiffany Dusterhoft | 8th Theater Sustainment Command Public Affairs)
U.S. Army-Pacific Public Affairs
News Release
FORT SHAFTER – Soldiers and family members from U.S. Army-Pacific gave tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the U.S. during a remembrance ceremony, Sept. 11, on Palm Circle, here.
Members from the U.S. Army-Pacific flag detail fold the American flag during the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony held Sept. 9 at Fort Shafter, Hawaii. (Photo by Spc. Tiffany Dusterhoft | 8th Theater Sustainment Command Public Affairs)
“It was a strike at the core of what it means to be American. What brings us together in remembrance are the same feelings of dedication and common cause that united us that day, and forever since,” said Maj. Gen. Joseph Chaves, deputy commanding general, USARPAC.
The 11 years since have been filled with both triumph and loss. To date, more than 6,600 Americans have given their lives in overseas contingency operations conducted in response to the war imposed upon the U.S.
“The price our country has paid is high, but our efforts over the last decade have not been in vain and have prevented our enemies any further successful attacks against our homeland,” said Chaves, who stood before a large formation of Soldiers representing the Army presence in Hawaii.
Chaves told those gathered that from late 2001 to present day over three million people have chosen to serve. They made the choice, he explained, knowing they would serve in harm’s way. They represent today’s all volunteer force and the ethics and values of a great nation, he added.
Chaves closed out his remarks by asking those gathered to reflect upon the sacrifices of our citizens, our first responders, our military and our Gold Star families (those families who have lost service members).
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS — Col. Brian Eifler (front right), commander 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, salutes during the national anthem to honor the fallen during a ceremony here, Sept. 11. (Photo by 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division Public Affairs)
“We can never forget the horrific events of 9/11, but we should take pride that our nation came together and rose to the daunting challenge before it,” Chaves said. “Reflect on the service and duty embraced by our military, the sacrifices it has made, and the triumphs it has achieved through the embodiment of our American values.”
On Sept. 11, 2001, more than 3,000 American citizens lost their lives to the largest surprise attack in U.S. history since Pearl Harbor. Tuesday marked the 11th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that changed the lives of Americans.
Each year since the attacks, USARPAC has commemorated the anniversary of the event with a ceremony on Palm Circle.
Category: Community, Leadership, Safety
Subscribe
If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to receive more just like it.
