Twenty years ago this September 11, the nation was horrified by attacks on the nation.
Terrorists hijacked four airplanes and flew them into the North and South Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and attempted to crash into the U. S. Capitol building.
The reactions by firefighters, EMTs, police, and the military were immediate. These first responders all ran toward danger in order to save lives.
The actions of these 9/11 heroes will be commemorated on the 20th Anniversary with an event on Saturday on the West end of the Gold Museum.
"Some first responders have paid the supreme price to ensure our freedom and liberty," said Dahlonega Mayor Sam Norton. "It is of utmost importance that we do not forget the sacrifices of all the first responders who put their lives in danger to keep us safe every day and night."
The commemoration will begin at 8:30 a.m. with an introduction, prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.
The event will proceed with the ringing of church bells for each of the attacks at 8:46 a.m., 9:03 a.m., 9:46 a.m., and 10:03 a.m.
A moment of silence will be observed during the bells, followed by reflections from speakers.
Guest speakers will include (in order of appearance) Fire Chief David Wimpy, Mayor Sam Norton, U.S. Army Col. (retired) Paul Wingo, and Lumpkin County Sheriff Stacy Jarrad.
The community is invited to participate in writing “Letters to the Military” between scheduled observances. Children can color pages to be included with the notes to active military members.
During the event, the National Anthem will be sung and the public will be invited to join in singing other patriotic songs.
The Commemoration is being sponsored by the Lumpkin County Republican Party, and will provide U. S. Flags for the public.
The local chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution will hand out pocket sized U.S. Constitutions.
Later that day, the Holly Theater is sponsoring a 2 p.m. showing of a movie that dramatizes the heroic actions of passengers on United Airlines Flight 93. The movie is free to the public and no tickets are required for the open seating.
