September 19, 2008

Remembering 9/11

By Bill Highlander
Editor

On Sept. 11, 2001, 19 terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners and attacked the United States. They flew two airplanes into the World Trade Center in New York City, destroying the twin towers and adjacent buildings. Another plane struck the Pentagon. Passengers on the fourth aircraft attempted to overpower the terrorists and the plane crashed in Pennsylvania.

A uniformed contingent participated in the wreath-laying ceremony as bugler Jose Aviles played Taps. Youth was represented by the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps unit of Silver Creek High School. Its color guard presented the colors. Photos by Bill Highlander

The death toll was 2,974, people who had just gone to work like every day or were traveling on business or vacation. There were policemen and firemen who bravely tried to save those trapped and many of them died in the trying.

Seven years later, the memories are still vivid. Monu-ments have been erected at ground zero, at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania. In San Jose, an observance was held at the American Legion Mayfair Post 791.

While many members of the Post are veterans, the crowd also included active duty military and younger civilian supporters. Youth was represented by the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps unit of Silver Creek High School.

Its color guard presented the colors and Cadet Emma Bringas sang the national anthem. A uniformed contingent participated in the wreath- laying ceremony as bugler Jose Aviles played Taps.

Mayor Chuck Reed noted the bravery of firemen and policemen who took part in the rescue and search operations at the World Trade Center. In recognizing that freedom requires vigilance and the war against terror needs dedication, he expressed gratitude to the men and women of the armed forces.

Air Force retired Lt. Col. Erne Perez spoke of his service in three wars and also expressed his appreciation for those who have and continue to serve the Nation in uniform.

There were other ceremonies around the country and the region as public safety and military personnel remembered the events of the worst terrorist attack on American soil. The battle is not yet won and America’s safety remains in need of safeguards.