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Twelve years ago, Sept. 11 was just an ordinary day, maybe somebody’s birthday or wedding anniversary. Now, it marks a point in American history that those who were old enough to remember, will never forget.

Eleven years ago, the course of U.S. history and policy this all changed after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Pentagon and plane crash in Pennsylvania. On Tuesday afternoon, San Ramon Valley residents attended an annual remembrance

At Oak Hill Park in Danville, meant to memorialize the nearly 3,000 people who died on the fateful day.

“Our remembrance is for all who were touched by Sept. 11,” said Karen Stepper, Danville council member and president of the Exchange Club, which organizes the event.

A line of Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts holding American flags wound their way into formation, behind the San Ramon Valley High School chamber singers, who serenaded the crowd with the National Anthem.

“As I drove through my street, I saw American flags hanging,” said San Ramon Mayor Bill Clarkson. “I remembered how special it is to live in America.”

The American flag was raised, the white-winged doves were released and the Wreath of Honor was recognized, all symbolizing patriotism.

The keynote speaker for this years’ event was Mary O’Donnell, a retired Rear Adm. with the U.S. Coast Guard, who quoted John F. Kennedy: “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty,” O’Donnell read.

Fire Chief Richard Price also honored veterans, those currently serving and the deceased, including Joshua “Chachi” Corral. Marine Lance Cpl. Corral was killed in action Nov. 18 during his first tour of duty in Afghanistan.

“We are a stronger nation because of Sept. 11,” said Danville Mayor Newell Arnerich.

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7 Comments

  1. I just returned from the East Coast and I was unaware and therefore surprised that on September 11, each of the TV stations televised live, the ceremony at the WTC monument where pairs of people would take turns standing and reading off every name of those lives lost on “9/11”.

    Needless to say, it was very touching and sad. To see those people who lost parents, children, aunts, uncles, brothers and sisters, was so tragic.

    We are so fortunate to live in this country. God Bless America!

  2. Yes, it was a very sad day twenty years ago when 3,000 American’s lost their life due to this horrible attack on American soil.

    The saddest part of this savage attack is that the total blame is being misdirected.

    My dear fellow Americans, if you believe those specific 14 Canal Jokey’s changed America’s way of life, you are in denial and your thought process is in limbo.

    The massive destruction that happen in New York was an inside job folks. Twenty years has passed. There will need to another 30 years to pass before our wonderful government tells those living the real truth. I won’t be here and the folks that are here will just push it aside as just old news.

    Unfortunately there are some of you folks that are naive and will continue to keep your head in the sand. You are a real bunch.

    I wonder if our honest and truthful government will tell we the people who really killed President JFK. Usually after 50 years the truth comes out…but I think they will add another 25 years to keep that information from us. Of course most of us know it wasn’t LHO. It will be nice to know the rest of the story.

    On second thought, I doubt all the details relating to the 911 event will be released in 30 years…more like 75 years.

    Well the mom from Danville says…”we are so fortunate to live in this Country. Oh yes we sure are 🙂 and her ending comment God Bless America!” Could you imagine how much more damage would have been done if God Didn’t Bless America????

    Thanks for Listening, Julia Pardini, from Alamo

  3. Just a quick follow-up. I just noticed what the Danville Mayor said with regard to our nation.

    I will have you know Mr. Mayor….we are NOT a stronger Nation. It is those type of comments that some of us like to hear…but you are dreaming if you believe it.

    Enjoy your weekend people. Just remember, we are allowing approximately 300 individuals dictate to over 300 million of us. And their guidance must be questioned.

    Think for yourself folks…It’s your life they’re messing with.

    Julia Pardini from Alamo

  4. Isn’t Freedom of Speech a wonderful thing? Only in America! Julia, did you forget to take your meds? You can’t add (20 years ago?) and can’t spell (Canal Jockey’s?). ’nuff said.

  5. Dear Julia:

    I’m curious, from your living room, or for that matter from any room in you house –CAN YOU SEE PLANET EARTH? When we discuss illegal immigration, you should be the first to be deported. Ask your Dr. if proszak will work for you.

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