Suzanne Stewart
Staff Writer
Twenty-three years ago on September 11, 2001, the United States was attacked, and patriotism was tested. First responders and the armed forces immediately acted and defended the country they held dear.
Now, September 11, 2001, is a chapter in the history books and there is a generation of Americans who don’t know what life was like prior to the attack.
But there are plenty of Americans who do remember and here, in Pocahontas County, at the gazebo park in Marlinton, they gather each year to remember.
Last Wednesday, the park was once again filled with members of the Pocahontas County Veterans Honor Corps and individuals who took a moment out of their day to remember and honor those lost on and since September 11, 2001.
Marlinton Mayor Sam Felton shared his thoughts on the meaning of the anniversary and why it’s important to never forget that day.
“I can imagine every one of us here remembers where we were when we first heard the news about what happened,” he said. “So, if we don’t keep doing this, who’s going to? I think it’s very important that we reflect on how blessed we really are. Freedom is not free.”
As he was gathering his thoughts for the ceremony, Felton said he couldn’t help but think of the commitment it took from the terrorists who formulated the plan and executed the horrific act that took place that day.
“It’s hard to comprehend,” he said. “It changed everything around us since that time. That’s my biggest sorrow in a way that our children, our grandchildren do not even know what it used to be like, because it did change everything about our nation going forward.
“I know one thing,” he continued. “Though we are small in number here today, your presence here reminds me that we still have a nation to be proud of. So, when we think about that, these ceremonies are worth taking time out of busy days to be reminded of how blessed we really are to be Americans.”
The Honor Corps presented a 21-gun salute, followed by the playing of Taps. The ceremony closed with music by Barry Sharp, and the Honor Corps properly disposing of old and tattered American flags.