386th AEW remembers the fallen in 9/11 memorial service

Published Sept. 11, 2010
By Maj. Dale Greer
386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Airmen from the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing gathered at an undisclosed air base this morning to honor the nearly 3,000 people who died in terrorist attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Center nine years ago today.

"On this day, all around the globe, people will gather to unite toward a common purpose," Col. Michael B. Katka, vice commander of the 386th AEW, told spectators during the sunrise memorial service here. "That purpose is to remember -- to remember the victims of the horrific terrorist attacks against our nation nine years ago. We also gather to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice as we continue the fight against those who would harm us for nothing more than taking a stand as a beacon of hope for freedom in the world.

"United in purpose, we continue to grieve for the victims of 9/11, and feel for families and friends who lost loved ones," Colonel Katka said. "We will long remember the heroes who emerged from the tragedies of those attacks, and we remain united for as long as it takes to root out terrorism and to end its threat to the United States of America and all freedom-loving nations worldwide. We must never lose our keen vigilance and never forget what happened."

According to the New York City medical examiner's office, 2,752 people died as a direct result of the attacks on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. The defense department reports that another 184 people were killed in attacks on the Pentagon that same day. In both attacks, terrorists hijacked commercial airliners and crashed them into the buildings, causing massive damage.

An additional 40 Americans died after the plane in which they were riding was hijacked by terrorists over Pennsylvania. A small group of passengers forced the aircraft to crash-land in a field before the hijackers could use it as an instrument of mass destruction.

During his comments today, Colonel Katka counseled fellow Airmen to stand fast in the face of an enemy who is determined to destroy the American ideals of freedom and democracy.

"As we reflect back on this painful page in our nation's history, we shall remain united toward the indelible task of eliminating the tyranny of extremist organizations and individuals," he said. "The memory of the tragic images from that fateful day will be forever planted in our minds. That moment of vulnerability reminds us of the persistent danger posed by violent extremists who would use terrorism against Americans and all those who share our ideals around the globe.

"But, make no mistake: We will prevail over these forces of darkness. Freedom and democracy will continue to triumph over tyranny and oppression."

The memorial service, which drew hundreds of spectators, was sponsored by the base 5/6 Council. A number of non-commissioned officers participated, including Master Sgt. Peter Soergel of the 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, who played bagpipes during the invocation; and Staff Sgt. Brandon Terhune, a bugler and CE troop who performed Taps as a memorial wreath was placed next to the 9/11 monument here.

Members of the Base Honor Guard also performed key roles, presenting the colors while the national anthem was sung by Staff Sgt. Giselle Janousek.