We remember -- we won't forget.
The oft-repeated phrase rang out as the sun slowly set on the annual 9-11 Rememberance Ceremony held Wednesday evening on the east side of Freedom Park in South Sioux City.
A gathering of veterans, fire and law enforcement officials, families and friends enjoyed the ceremony, held here every Sept. 11 in honor of the 2,977 people who lost their lives in the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 in New York City, Washington, D.C. and in Pennsylvania.
Representatives of law enforcement, public safety and American Legions around the area, along with VFW and Legion Riders members, were recognized for their service to the community and country during the 45-minute-long ceremony.
"We live in a different world since that day, but are blessed to still ive in a land that is free due to the sacrifice of the brave men and women of the armed services," said Bob Kratky, second assistant chief of the Dakota City Fire Department, who conducted part of Wednesday's program.
The program included the "four fives," a striking of a bell in a series of four groups of five rings, symbolizing the firefighter who died in the line of duty and didn't return home. A 21-gun salute, the playing of taps and a flag retirement ceremony by American Legion veterans that included the burning of about 5,000 unserviceable flags concluded Wednesday's ceremony.
