By Karen Hall

Editor

First responders from all services, politicians, veterans, and ordinary citizens gathered in Rock Creek Park in the evening heat of Sept. 11 to remember the terrible events of 12 years ago, and honor those who serve in this county, and all over the country.

State Sen. Jim Tracy had two other 9/11 events to attend, so he spoke first. He challenged listeners to remember the people in public service every day, and urged people to "shake their hand and thank them for their service" every time they can.

"Thank you and God bless America," Tracy concluded.

County Mayor Joe Boyd Liggett read his proclamation honoring our community service men and women, and said, "Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

Lewisburg Mayor Jim Bingham echoed Liggett's sentiments and, like him, ended with "God bless America."

The keynote speaker was retired Col. Larry McKnight, who is now executive director of the National Guard Organization of Tennessee.

Introducing McKnight, Master of Ceremonies Wayne Coomes called him "an officer and a gentleman, a dedicated public servant, a citizen-soldier, and a dedicated American patriot." McKnight spent 32 years in the Tennessee National Guard, including commanding in Desert Storm and Desert Shield. Each of McKnight's two sons has served two tours overseas since 9/11, noted Coomes. McKnight also served Marshall County as a commissioner, and Lewisburg as a councilman.

"We will all remember what we were doing (on 9/11)," said McKnight, just as people his age will remember where they were when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

On that morning, McKnight said he was in City Hall when City Manager Eddie Fuller called him to the TV and together they watched as the second tower was hit, and then both collapsed.

"It was one of those things you think will never happen to you," said McKnight, who also had a close friend working in the Pentagon that morning. He noted it was the deadliest incident for firefighters in the history of the United States -- 300 New York firefighters lost their lives that day.

"God bless all of you, and God bless America," McKnight concluded.

Coomes then called for members of law enforcement, fire fighters, emergency medical services, and National Guard personnel to stand up group by group for recognition and applause.

He said, "These folks are especially close to me," and explained he had been in the Marines for 30 years, Lewisburg Police Chief for seven, Fire Chief for five, and a member of the 911 Board for five years.

The last speaker was State Rep. Billy Spivey, who thanked the many people who had worked for a month to put on the event, including the sponsors who provided ice, water, and ice cream for everyone.

"We're deeply grateful," said Spivey. "Now let's transition from a time of remembrance to a time of celebration." He urged people to have some ice cream, and enjoy the company of their friends and neighbors.

"There is victory on the other side of these challenges that face our country," Spivey assured the audience.

The celebration included live music from Nashville recording artist Paul Pace, who said, "We'll just try to have as much fun as we can," as he played songs old and new, accompanying himself on guitar.