• ST. LOUIS, MO, September 9, 2011 – An empty table sat in a place of honor today in tribute to the nation’s soldiers who have fallen in the War on Terrorism, while active and retired military personnel and first responders stood in a moment of silence during the September 11th Observance Ceremony at Beaumont High School.

     

    “Each guest honored today is a neighbor, friend, and in some cases, a relative, who has answered the call to serve. They are examples of courage and sacrifice, and we will never forget and always admire their contribution to our nation’s continued existence and freedom,” said Cadet Davion Wilson, lead narrator for ceremony.

     

    The September 11th Observance Ceremony brought together past, present and future generations of Americans to honor true national heroes, soldiers and first responders who have dedicated their lives to defend and protect the lives, rights and freedom of the citizens of the United States of America. 

     

    Honored today were soldiers who have been deployed since September 11, 2001 to fight in the War on Terrorism.  Please recognize:

    ·         First Sergeant Dwayne Robinson, 620 Corps Support Battalion

    ·         Staff Sergeant Vernon Williams, 620 Corps Support Battalion

    ·         Staff Sergeant Jeffery Eden, 620 Corps Support Battalion

    ·         Sergeant Lavelle Peete, 620 Corps Support Battalion

    ·         Specialist Jeremy Roth, 620 Corps Support Battalion

    ·         Specialist Robert Cole, 620 Corps Support Battalion

     

    Also honored during the ceremony today were first responders, policemen, firefighters, and emergency technicians, who provide invaluable protection, care and support for the residents of the City of St. Louis. Please recognize:

    ·         Officer Scott Wilmot, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Officer Joseph Tomlinson, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Captain K. Morton, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter D. Sproling, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter S. Laks, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter C. Blackwell, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter A. Solomon, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Captain D. Lemmon, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter D. Jones, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter R. Muhammad, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter D. Tabb, City of St. Louis Fire Department

    ·         Firefighter C. Hangge, City of St. Louis Fire Department

     

    When the terrorist attacks occurred September 11, 2001, first responders in New York and Washington D. C. arrived instantly to the scene for search and rescue operations, saving countless lives without a care or thought for their own wellbeing.  As word spread throughout the country, first responders from the City and around the country joined in the efforts.

     

    During the Beaumont JROTC ceremony, each soldier and first responder in attendance received a plaque and a commemorative pin.  The event concluded with touching words from Steven Clay, Assistant Principal for Beaumont High School.  As a retired member of the Air Force who served in the Pentagon before the attacks occurred, Clay recalled walking the halls where the plane had crashed and the grief he experienced after discovering two colleagues, whom he considered friends, had died in the attacks.  His remarks were a moving experience illustrating the depth and impact of the attacks on every American. 

     

    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Information (314) 393-0572.

     

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