Philadelphia Fire Department Walks In Memory Of 9/11
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The fireman's tribute walk on the morning of 9/11 was one way to commemorate the 10th anniversary of one of the darkest days in American history.
Although the city remembers together, the memories are personal.
"God puts you where you need to be and I just happened to be there," said Reverend Gwendolyn King.
King was at Andrews Air Force Base 10 years ago. She remembers the sense of fear in the first few hours, then the sense of duty to serve her country and her fellow Americans. It is a feeling she shares with many.
"We were told we could go home," said Ann Shade, attending the commemorative gathering on Independence Mall, "but everyone wanted to stay to support one another."
Members of all religions joined together for an interfaith prayer service to remember the events of that day. Different beliefs filled the room, but one fact united all in attendance.
"We're in this together. This affects all faiths and all religions," said Mark Ristine, who came to the 9/11 events with his church to teach the children to turn something negative into something positive.
A crowd gathered at Independence Mall to mourn for the lives lost and to find strength and pride in unity.
"We will remember unity, not division," said Mayor Michael Nutter, speaking to the crowd in attendance.
Ten years after 9/11 changed American history, it remains a powerful day not only to remember the past, but to bring the nation together for the future.
Reported by Oren Liebermann, CBS 3
