American Legion Post 795 hosts 9/11 ceremony (Photo: Tahoe Daily Tribune)
In South Lake Tahoe, American Legion Post 795 organized a memorial ceremony to honor and remember the victims of the Attacks on September 11, 2001.
The event honored the lives lost in the attacks and paid tribute to the first responders who displayed bravery during that fateful day. The event also paid tribute to local first responders who tirelessly serve the community and safeguard citizens.
The 9/11 memorial ceremony also honored local first responders for their dedication to community, citizen safety, and freedom & democracy (Photo: Ashleigh Goodwin / Tahoe Daily Tribune)
Post Commander Tom Millham led the event, starting with a moment of reflection as he recounted the events that unfolded in real-time on that ill-fated Monday morning. Brooke Lane, District V Supervisor, spoke on behalf of the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors during a proclamation. Lane acknowledged the heroes who emerged from the chaos, ordinary people who became saviors in a time of crisis. She called for their sacrifice to be known and remembered as a sacred offering, a testament to the high price of freedom.
The event featured moments of silence, prayer, and reflection for both first responders and the families of those who perished, including civilians and military personnel. The ceremony concluded with several end-of-duty rituals.
Jim Drennan, South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue Chief, performed and explained the “Series of Four Fives,” a tradition dating back to 1865, where four bell tones struck five times, separated by slight pauses, signify a firefighter’s final duty.
As the ceremonies drew to a close, a bugle played “Taps,” marking the conclusion of the emotional gathering at The American Legion Hall.
At the American Legion Post 795, a table was arranged to pay tribute to those who couldn’t join the festivities. An empty chair symbolized an unknown face, representing all members of the Armed Forces. A Bible signified faith in a higher power and allegiance to a nation founded as one nation under God. A black napkin stood for the emptiness left in the hearts of the warriors’ families and friends. The lamp of remembrance ensured that the flame of memory never dies out for those who have not yet returned or have yet to be accounted for.
Among the most touching items was a candle, symbolizing the enduring hope for a joyous reunion with those yet unaccounted for.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of the September 11 Attacks twenty-two years ago and the resilience of the American spirit in the face of tragedy.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
