FALLON, Nev. — Nevada National Guard Adjutant General Maj. Gen. D. Rodger Waters joined community leaders, U.S. Navy personnel, veterans and residents in Fallon on Sept. 11 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that changed the nation.
Serving as the ceremony’s guest speaker, Waters honored the 2,977 people killed at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. He also remembered the first responders, service members and civilians whose actions became enduring examples of courage and selflessness.
Waters said the same spirit shown in the aftermath of the attacks remains central to the nation’s strength. “America’s strength is not derived solely from our weapons, but from the indomitable spirit, unity and shared purpose of our people,” Waters said.
Looking toward the future, Waters urged Americans to honor those sacrifices through vigilance, military readiness, national unity and a continued commitment to the country’s democratic principles.
“May we continue to stand worthy of the sacrifices made in 2001 and every day since,” Waters said. “May we comfort the families who still hold an empty seat at their tables, and may we carry forward the torch of liberty with unwavering determination.”
Following his remarks, Waters presented Dylan Tedford with the Nevada Medal of Merit for his service as the governor’s military adviser from Nov. 24, 2025, to June 18, 2026. The award recognized Dylan’s leadership, counsel and work coordinating state and federal agencies during Nevada National Guard deployments and homeland security operations.
The ceremony concluded with Waters and Fallon Mayor Ken Tedford joining members of the community in placing flowers at the Sept. 11 memorial at City Hall, honoring those killed in the attacks and those who answered the nation’s call in the years that followed.
“May God bless the fallen, protect those currently standing watch and forever bless the United States,” Waters said.