Two years after the tragedy and devastation of September 11, 2001, American citizens gathered across the nation to pause for reflection and bow their heads in prayer.
About 300 people assembled outside the Boone County Courthouse this morning for a brief but poignant ceremony to remember those who lost their lives and to praise those who fought to save them. Mayor Darwin Hindman spoke and representatives of many local emergency agencies attended.
"It's not important that people come to a formal event, but just that they take a moment during their day to appreciate the people who were there, and those who are still fighting the war on terror," said Doug Westhoff, the leader of Task Force One. Westhoff and his team of volunteer firefighters were called to duty in New York on Sept. 11, and spent 10 days aiding the New York Fire Department.
"The ceremony was just simple enough and respectful enough; perfect if there was anyone here who lost someone, and for our men that were there," Assistant Fire Chief Ken Hines said.
In New York City today, thousands gathered at Ground Zero to pay their respects and listen to the voices of more than 200 children reading the names of the 2,792 people whose lives were lost.
Similar ceremonies took place at the Pentagon, the White House, and in southwest Pennsylvania.
More memorial services are scheduled for today.