Rutherford County Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh hosted his annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on the grounds of the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office in front of the North facing 9/11 memorial.
More than 200 were in attendance with an additional three film crews to pray, listen, observe, and to give thanks.
Sheriff Fitzhugh dedicated the annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony to the first responders, military, and civilians who lost their lives from the terrorists’ attacks September 11, 2001, in the New York City, Washington D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Retired Senator and M.T.S.U. Director of Governmental and Community Affairs John Hood served as Master of Ceremonies. National Anthem sung by the lovely Rebecca Himes, Post of the POW Flag on the Memorial Gardens by Rolling Thunder, and the Pledge of Allegiance from Retired Marine Anthony “Tony” Knox.
Keynote Speaker World War II Navy Medic Bill Allen recounted his 18th birthday registration for selective service and his subsequent commitment to the US Navy. Allen, 94, of Murfreesboro, described D-Day, and the Omaha Beach invasion in Normandy, France where Allen was one of 28 sailors to survive when his ship was destroyed by enemy fire, leaving the LST523 Landing Craft in pieces across the English Channel killing 117 American Sailors and his friends.
Listening to Allen, lightly Taps was playing the background, one is reminded of youth and courage, honor and dedication, service and integrity, and he reminded us all that God is alive and present.
The closing was performed by Bell Ringing of the Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue, and a 21-gun salute respectfully performed by the Smyrna Police and Fire departments, Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services, and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.
As we go forward in our daily lives, let us NEVER forget that on 9/11, 18 years ago, terrorists came to do only harm, and let us never forget those who died at the hand of terrorist’s cowardice.
We must remember those who went into buildings that were exploding and on fire to rescue, those who stared at death and downed a plane, so it could do no harm, and those whom daily lead from the front for freedom, liberty, commitment, and integrity.
These men and women are true patriots, they symbolize freedom, allegiance, and honor, and they have earned our respect.
MTSU Remembers
As part of MTSU's fifth annual 9/11 Remembrance ceremony Wednesday (Sept. 11), country music artist Rodney Atkins announced that he will hold a benefit concert in Murphy Center.
