RED RIVER ARMY DEPOT, Texas – Depot employees, first responders, and community members joined Red River Army Depot on Friday for a Patriot Day ceremony that paid tribute to the victims of 9/11 and recognized the bravery of those who rushed toward danger 25 years ago.
Josh Morris, Emergency Management Specialist, opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and inviting them to stand for the National Anthem before Chief of Staff Joe Johnson delivered the invocation.
Johnson reflected on the courage shown by first responders and civilians 25 years ago, noting that “on this September day, we remember the heroes who responded to the cries for help, those who rushed toward the sound of explosions, collapse and fire putting their own safety to the side to care for others in need.” He closed with a reminder to “help us, Lord, to never forget.”
Depot Commander Col. Christopher J. Masson followed with remarks that underscored the enduring impact of the attacks and the unity that emerged in their aftermath. He honored the 2,977 people killed on 9/11, including the 343 firefighters and 60 police officers who died responding to the World Trade Center, as well as the servicemembers who later gave their lives in the fight against terrorism.
“Today, we gather in solemn remembrance of a day that changed our nation forever,” he said.
Masson shared his personal memory of the morning of Sept. 11, recalling that he was conducting a motor pool walk‑through as a platoon leader at Fort Eustis when the first plane struck. He described watching events unfold with fellow officers and speaking briefly with his father, a Vietnam veteran, as both prepared for what might come next.
“Before we would do our part, first responders and everyday civilians ran into danger, risked their lives, lost their lives, and showed incredible character and strength that still inspires us today,” he said.
Following the commander’s remarks, Sgt. CJ Yi and Inspector Brett Allen laid wreaths in honor of the victims of 9/11.
Jeffrey Mays, Plans and Operations Chief, then led attendees through a timeline of the attacks, beginning with the moment the first plane struck the North Tower at 8:46 a.m. A bell tolled five times to mark the impact. Mays later noted the second strike at 9:03 a.m., again accompanied by five tolls of the bell.
Deputy Director of Emergency Services Nick Seibert delivered a reflection on the lasting significance of the day, reminding attendees that “history is replete with dates and events that shape generations,” and that Sept. 11 “would forever be anything but ordinary.” He emphasized the courage of first responders, Soldiers, and citizen Soldiers who mobilized in the aftermath, adding that “in our darkest hour, the best of America shone forth.”
The ceremony continued with a moment of silence and a solemn “End of Watch” radio call honoring first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice. The “Final Alarm,” or “Striking of the Four Fives,” followed, symbolizing a firefighter’s last call.
Johnson returned to deliver the closing prayer, asking that the nation remain united as it was in the days following the attacks.
“We have sought to honor the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” he said. He prayed for continued strength and service from the military and first responders who protect the nation today.
The ceremony concluded with an invitation for attendees to gather for a reception.
| Date Taken: |
09.11.2026 |
| Date Posted: |
09.11.2026 12:52 |
| Story ID: |
574432 |
| Location: |
TEXARKANA, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: |
14 |
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0 |
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