The Rotary Club of Northwest Austin invites everyone to join them as they memorialize the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attack and the 2,977 lives lost at a tribute 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 11.
“Sept. 11 was a terrible day in our country’s history, but following the attacks Americans rallied as never before in unity and in support of our great nation,” Club President Rick Hoffman said. “We believe this spirit of unity is needed more than ever. “On this day, no matter political or other beliefs, we are one -- we are Americans,” he added.
The tribute will take place across the street from the main entrance to the Balcones Country Club at 8600 Balcones Club Drive in Austin.
Preparations for the event will begin Wednesday, Sept. 8, when Rotarians will gather on the lot to place 300 American flags -- approximately one flag for each 10 lives lost.
At 9 a.m. on Saturday Boy Scout Troop 513 sponsored by Hope Presbyterian Church will post the colors followed by a prayer, pledge of allegiance and singing of the national anthem.
Joined by the Scouts and first responders from Austin Fire Department Station 44, Rotarians will read the names of all those lost as a result of the attack. The names will be read in 10-15 minute tributes until all the names have been said aloud and Rotarians will be onsite until approximately 2:30 p.m.
“We invite everyone to visit this memorial, get out of your cars, and walk solemnly through the field of flags to pay tribute and honor to those lost on Sept. 11, 2001,” Hoffman said. “We will never forget.”
Rotarians across the world are dedicated to promoting peace and conflict prevention and resolution as one of their seven areas of service.
