HAMPTON, Va. –
Service members from Joint Base Langley-Eustis joined the Hampton community at the 12th annual "Day of Remembrance and Hope" to remember those lost during and affected by the terrorist attacks against the nation 12 years ago on Sept. 11.
Those in attendance included military personnel, first responders, community leaders, veterans of foreign wars, local school students and family members of 9/11 victims.
The event was hosted by the city of Hampton to unite the community in demonstrating America's hope during darkness. Inspired by a memorial prayer for the victims of 9/11, the community planted "Trees of Hope" in "Soils of Justice" inside Gosnold's Hope Park to honor fallen victims, first responders and Service members.
The "Soils of Justice" are comprised of soils from the three sites of the terrorist attacks - New York City, Washington D.C., and Stonycreek Township, Pa. The "Trees of Hope" are evergreen trees reminiscent of the sprigs George Washington chose as our country's emblem of hope.
"While tears were shed, there was exuberant pride in the individuals who were here today," said U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Ryan Sattelburg, 149th Seaport Operations Company, Fort Eustis, "We honored the sacrifices victims of 9/11 suffered, as well as the fallen Service members and first responders."
Hampton resident, Gloria Murray, lost her daughter, Sandra Murray-White, in the attack on the Pentagon.
"I want them to keep on; we haveto keep on every day," Murray said of U.S. Service members' efforts in the fight against terrorism. "We have to keep pushing and do what we can to protect others."
Sattelburg said despite the adversity the U.S. faced, the nation and its people remain resilient and prepared to overcome it.
"Don't allow this day to be defined by sadness, but as a day to reflect on yesterday, today and tomorrow," he said, "God bless America."