News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
DeKalb County and Smithville are joining together Thursday to remember those fallen on September 11.
Smithville Fire Chief Charlie Parker said 20 years later, many cannot remember the events of that day. Parker said that makes events like this meaningful, to recall a moment that rallied a nation to band together.
“That brought the first responders to the forethought of everyone,” Parker said. “I know at that time everyone was backing all the first responders. Law enforcement, fire, rescue, EMS.”
Parker said the aftermath of 9/11 showed the country’s resilience to rebuild and recover. He said it also showed The United States of America is capable of standing strong while standing together.
The memorial will begin at 6:00 PM on the east side of the court house. The gathering will include songs, prayers and the Marine Corp League performing the three-volley salute and taps.
“It is important to recognize the job these people do each and every day and they continue to do,” Parker said. “As we bring on new people into these fields, that they remember the predecessors before them. What sacrifices they made to bring us where we are, here today.”
Parker said the event will be a chance for those who remember exactly where they were on 9/11 to tell their stories for the younger generation. He said it will also be a time for remember those who died who were not first responders.
