FORTVILLE — Mt. Vernon students gathered on the high school football field Friday morning, lining up to spell “UNITED” for all those in the bleachers before them.
The sentiment was an overarching theme of the ceremony commemorating the 20th anniversary of the attacks in the U.S. on Sept. 11, 2001. Through speeches, songs, silence and demonstrations, the event recognized first-responders, veterans and active military personnel while reflecting on the horrors of that day and the way the country came together in response.
Tony Buechler, commander of VFW Post 6904 in Fortville and a 16-year veteran of the Indiana Army National Guard who served in Operation Enduring Freedom, was the event’s keynote speaker. He recalled the atrocities committed on 9/11 and how they changed the country and world.
“We may have been frightened by the terrorist attacks on 9/11, but America didn’t surrender or succumb to the fear,” Buechler said. “Our nation drew upon the same values that have carried American ideals from century to century. From one generation to another, goodness will prevail over the forces of evil, and freedom will continue to light the path into the future of freedom-loving people across the globe.”
The event also included performances of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by the high school’s band and “God Bless America” by the high school’s choir, as well as a posting of the colors by members of the local VFW post. U.S. Air Force Veteran Larry Powell played “Taps” on his trumpet.
Jack Parker, Mt. Vernon superintendent, reflected in his message about the thousands who died on 9/11 and the bravery of first-responders, as well as the war that followed and the changes made to keep Americans safe.
He recalled the phrase, “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, and the second-best time is today.”
“Much like a tree, the unity that we planted as a country 20 years ago, when we came together as one voice, supporting and loving one another, needs continual nurturing to thrive and grow,” Parker said.
Mt. Vernon School Board member and Army veteran Tony May; Vernon Township Fire Chief Chad Abel; and Fortville Police Chief Pat Bratton recounted the details of each of the attacks on 9/11, followed by moments of silence for all who died, as well as for the 13 U.S. troops killed last month in Afghanistan.
“As we leave today, let us vow to do more than we did before to serve our communities and our nation,” Buechler said. “Let us take a moment to reflect on everything that’s changed since 9/11, to pause, to remember the victims and honor all the brave men and women who have selflessly sacrificed for our nation, and to commit ourselves to our families, to our communities and to our country. That’s what makes America great. That’s what makes America a symbol of hope. That’s the best way to honor the memory of those lost due to the events on Sept. 11.”
