Remembrance of 9-11 victims is set for Friday at courthouse

Columbia County officials will pay homage Friday to those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks that occurred eight years ago.

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Nearly 3,000 people, including police, firefighters and emergency personnel attempting to rescue other victims trapped inside buildings, died on Sept. 11, 2001, in New York, Pennsylvania and the Pentagon.

A brief ceremony will start at 8:30 a.m. at the Columbia County Justice Center's flagpole on Ronald Reagan Drive in Evans. This will mark the eighth year the service has been held within the county.

"The purpose is to remember and honor all of the innocent victims that lost their lives, the heroes who gave selflessly of themselves to serve others, and also an appreciation for our own local heroes who bravely serve our citizens every day," county Emergency and Operations Division Director Pam Tucker said.

Commission Chairman Ron Cross will open the ceremony. The service also will include the lowering of the flag, last call for Fire Department of New York and ringing of the bell by area fire and emergency personnel. After a moment of silence, a bagpipe solo and closing prayer will end the ceremony.

"It's going to be just a brief, solemn ceremony," Tucker said.

Sept. 11 is now known as Patriot Day. Citizens are asked to fly their American flags at half-staff at homes nationwide and at government buildings and establishments.