9/11 Marked with Remembrance Ceremonies Around the Mountains

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Communities across mountainous North Carolina commemorated the 23rd anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on Wednesday with various solemn ceremonies.

Asheville Memorial Service

Asheville held a memorial service at its municipal building, marked with the tolling of a bell and a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., the exact moment American Airlines Flight 11 surged into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Later, several officials addressed the attendees, reflecting on the horrifying event and the importance of unity in the face of adversity.

Asheville Police Chief Mike Lamb shared his personal experiences after the tragic day. “I remember the Sunday after Sept. 11, patrolling downtown, and as I was doing my patrol,” Lamb said. “I saw that every church was full. People were coming out, talking to each other. There was a sense of support, of unity.”

Remembrance in Henderson County

In Henderson County, the commemoration took place at the historic courthouse with the presence of law enforcement, fire, and rescue units. The Emergency Services Director of Henderson County, Jimmy Brissie, spoke about how challenging times often fortify communities.

“It’s really just an opportunity to reflect on the past 23 years, what Sept. 11 meant in 2001, and then how we as a nation have grown, how communities that day have strengthened, and we continue to work together to take care of our neighbors, our friends, and our families,” Brissie remarked.

Haywood County’s Tribute to Firefighters

Haywood County will host an evening memorial at the Clyde Fire Department along Carolina Boulevard to honor the firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11. This poignant tribute will honour the 334 brave members of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) who perished in the World Trade Center towers on that fateful day.

Preserving Unity and Strength

The ceremonies held throughout the mountain regions emphasized the unity, strength, and resilience of American communities in the face of adversity. They serve not only as a reminder of the tragic events of September 11 but also commemorate the extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by first responders, the military, and regular citizens on that day and the days that followed.