NCNG Holds 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Mary Junell | Raleigh, North Carolina - Staff Sgt. David West, a member of the North Carolina National Guard’s (NCNG) 440th Army Band, plays taps during the 9-11 remembrance ceremony held at the NCNG’s Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh on Sept. 11, 2017. The ceremony honored those who died as a result of the attacks on 9-11 as well as the NCNG Soldier’s who have died in combat since. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Mary Junell)  

RALEIGH, NC, UNITED STATES

09.11.2017

Story by Staff Sgt. Mary Junell  

North Carolina National Guard

Soldiers, Airmen and civilians filled the auditorium at the North Carolina National Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina on Sept. 11, 2017, to participate in a 9-11 remembrance ceremony.

Gov. Roy Cooper and his cabinet, as well as several Emergency Management personnel and NC Highway Patrol leadership were also in attendance.

The host of the ceremony, the Assistant Adjutant General for Sustainment, Brig. Gen. Allen Boyette, asked that the audience remember the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

“Nearly 3,000 innocent civilians, military and extremely brave first-responders perished on this day sixteen years ago,” Boyette said. “Those who fought for their lives in the flames of the towers and the Pentagon, on board the planes, and climbing the endless stairs with fire and rescue gear, this day will be remembered forever for their sacrifice.”

Boyette honored the sacrifice of the men and women of the North Carolina Army and Air Guard who have served since 9-11 and those who died while serving.

“Since September 11, 2001, nearly 22,500 of our fellow brothers and sisters in the North Carolina Army and Air National Guard have deployed abroad in support of our nation,” Boyette said. “Many of these Soldiers and Airmen have deployed multiple times. Today we remember those in our ranks who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in support of this fight against terrorism to defend our American way of life. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Gold-Star Families and also to the friends and comrades of our fallen heroes.”

During the ceremony, all in attendance observed a moment of silence that was followed by the playing of Taps and the singing of God Bless America.

• Date Taken: 09.11.2017
• Date Posted: 09.11.2017 14:34
• Story ID: 247781
• Location: RALEIGH, NC, US