The American and Italian flags flew side-by-side at half-mast as a blanket of silence fell upon the hundreds of Sailors, civilians and local nations who reflected upon the nearly 3,000 lives lost and sacrifices made Sept. 11, 2001.
A remembrance ceremony was held on the U.S. Naval Support Activity base in Capodichino, commemorating the 12th anniversary of the attacks.
During the ceremony, coordinated by Naples-area Chief Selectees, a wreath was laid in honor of the Americans killed in the four coordinated attacks across the country.
Capt. Scott Gray, commanding officer of U.S. Naval Support Activity Naples, spoke at the ceremony, reflecting upon his personal experiences during the attacks and the dedication of first-responders following.
“We can’t always be prepared, but we can always act,” he said.
Gray acknowledged the courage of the victims aboard the hijacked planes used in the assaults and the dedication of military members who protect and defend America at any cost.
“The events of 9/11 are why we do what we do,” Gray said of the military’s dedication to protecting the country. “We recognize in [the victim’s] sacrifice…their resolve, why we salute them, why we pull together no matter what the cost.”
Hundreds attended the event, including American and Italian firefighters and military members, to show their respects during the ceremony. Many, who attended, took the opportunity to reflect on what the anniversary of Sept. 11 meant to them and how it affected their lives and country years following.
Personnel Specialist (AW) 2nd Class James Jones said he believed Americans became stronger after the emotional and devastating tragedies, which lead to a greater unification across the country.
“To find the courage to put our differences aside and lend a hand to our brothers and sisters that were affected in a time of need is a testament to how great our nation truly is,” he said. “9/11 is a day I shall never forget.”
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Press Release, September 12, 2013; Image: US Navy