More than 250 employees, students and community leaders gathered at the First Responders Memorial on the Sandhills Community College (SCC) campus today at 9:50 a.m. for a solemn ceremony offered by the Student Government Association (SGA) in honor of those who served and protected and those who perished on this day, 24 years ago.
 
The presentation of colors was offered by the Southern Pines Police Department, followed by the national anthem sang by student Anyssia Mains. President of the SGA Nick Watts opened the ceremony followed by a lowering of the flag lead by students Hazel Gaspari, Ryan Watson and Sincere Bonner.
 
Reflections of 9/11 were offered by students John Harrison, studying Basic Law Enforcement Training, and Nolan Nelms, studying Fire Safety Technology.
 
“My dad was a firefighter before re-enlisting in the military following the events of 9/11,” said Nelms. “He was a good man, and I strive to be more like him. My heart goes out to all those affected by this tragedy that happened when I was a kid.”
A moment of silence was led by student and SGA Vice President Makya Mitchell.
 
Sandhills Community Chief of Staff Dr. Julie Voigt closed the ceremony by sharing “As we remember, let’s remember to carry the torch of service. Everyone in trouble that day had ordinary people come to help them in a tragic situation. That action made the responders extraordinary that day. We too can follow their lead as we live a life of service and step in when duty calls.”
 
The community is invited to visit the First Responders Memorial on the Sandhills Community College campus in Pinehurst from dawn to dusk. There are benches for reflection and marble inlays that honor various branches of first responders. You can park in the Einstein Lot and walk between Logan Hall and Van Dusen Hall to get to the memorial on your left.