Col. Cole speaks about the legacy and impact of September 11 during a ceremony at Fort Wainwright

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) – During the annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Fort Wainwright, Col. Jason Cole, USAG Alaska Garrison Commander, spoke about how 9/11 changed the Army, and specifically how the Army carries on the legacy of that tragic day. A day that is “forever etched in our collective memory,” Cole said.

On September 11, 2001, four planes were hijacked and crashed in the United States, killing thousands of people. The planes, hijacked by Al-Qaeda terrorists, were intended to hit four important buildings on the east coast of the United States. Three of them achieved their target. One hit the Pentagon and the other two each hit one of the Twin Towers.

The effects of this destruction are still felt today and also affect the operations of the soldiers in Alaska.

To commemorate and honor the victims of the attack, Fort Wainwright hosted a ceremony on the morning of September 11, 2024, the 23rd anniversary of the attack.

The ceremony began with Eve Baker singing the national anthem. This was followed by speeches and prayers with words from Chaplain Michael Patterson and Police Chief Tom Kearns of the Fort Wainwright Police Department. Solemn sounds filled the atmosphere as those in attendance expressed the feelings of grief and solidarity brought by the tragedy. “It is a reminder not only of the tragic loss we have suffered, but also of the unwavering spirit of resilience that rose from the ashes of that day,” Cole said.

Afterwards, a fire bell rang as the flag was lowered to half-staff to honor those who lost their lives during the relief effort, a tradition that originated with firefighters. “We continue to be inspired by those who have sacrificed and remain steadfast. May we gain courage, virtue and compassion and never forget why we do what we do,” Patterson said.

Col. Cole then spoke about the aftermath of 9/11 and how it lives on in the Army. “Whether it's freezing temperatures or operational demands, our willingness to persevere reflects the same spirit of resilience the nation developed after 9/11,” he said. Our missions here require endurance, adaptability and teamwork; qualities that reflect the resolve of those who rose to the occasion after the attacks.”

After a 21-gun salute, the tattoo was played and a wreath was laid while the song “Amazing Grace” was played on a bagpipe.

At the end, the crowd sang “God Bless America” before giving their closing remarks.

But it was Col. Cole's words that explained the lasting impact of that day, which is forging a new path forward. “The spirit of 9/11 is not just a reminder of the past, it is a beacon that guides our future, it is a testament to the resilience that lies within each of us as Americans and as soldiers,” he said. “May we honor that legacy through our actions, our service and our unwavering commitment to the values ​​that unite us all.”

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