CLIO— In honor of the nation’s fallen, the town of Clio organized a September 11, 2001 remembrance service that drew residents, neighbors, friends, elected officials and first responders from across the county Friday. The town of Clio’s service began at 9:45 a.m. with attendees gathering at the flag in the center of town.
Clio Mayor Adam Pate said it was a moment for him to reflect on what the country lost that day versus the poignant moments of unity that were reflected across the nation on September 12, 2001.
“We pause to remember the lives lost, the heroes who served, and the families forever changed by the events of September 11, 2001. While September 11 was a day of tragedy, September 12 reminded us of the strength of the American spirit,” said Pate, adding, “Across our nation, people came together with an overwhelming sense of patriotism, compassion, and unity. Neighbors helped neighbors, differences were set aside, and we stood together as one. As we mark this 25th anniversary, may we honor the 2,977 we lost not only by remembering them, but by embracing that same spirit of unity and working together to build stronger communities for future generations. We will never forget.”
Sheriff Larry McNeil said the day always hits especially close to home for his family.
“My brother worked in one of the buildings and from the moment it happened until 9 p.m. that night we did not hear from him, we did not know if her was alright. Every year I am taken back to those moments, to the fear of not knowing,” McNeil shared, before continuing, “In my position as Sheriff it is important to me to participate and have a visible presence on such an impactful day for our county and nation.”
Sheriff McNeil went on to recall another connection he has to the day, saying, “September 11 is a very impactful day and I was grateful to experience a memorial service for the fallen in New York with other local former Marlboro leaders: Mayor Benji Rogers, Mayor Pro Tem Freddie Hodge and Fireman Shawn Feldner.” McNeil himself was a MCSO Chief Deputy at the time.
Also present for the observance, Bennettsville Police Chief Sammy Crosland said his focus on September 11 is the victims.
“Today, as we gather in Clio to observe the 25th anniversary of September 11th, we pause to remember the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost and the countless families, first responders, law enforcement officers, firefighters, military personnel and citizens whose lives were forever changed. September 11th is more than a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of the American courage, sacrifice and unity that emerged during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history. As law enforcement officers, we understand the responsibility that comes with standing between our communities and those who seek to cause harm,” Crosland said. He added, “We must never forget the men and women who ran toward the danger while others were running away. We must never forget the families who never saw their loved ones come home. And we must never forget the strength and unity that brought this country together. Today we remember. We honor. We teach the next generation. And most importantly, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting our communities and serving with courage, integrity, and dedication. The message remains the same 25-years later: we will never forget.”