Jasper Remembers those who lost their lives on 9-11

Jasper's 14th Annual 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony was held this morning on the Court House square. Dozens of local Patriots braved the gloomy weather to hear the stories and share their own memories of that fateful day 23 short years ago.

Designer and Chairman of Jasper Remembers 9-11, Roy James welcomed the crowd and Fr. Ron Foshage opened the event with prayer.

During many emotional moments, a number of local representatives and citizens shared their memories.

Chris Lanier, Co Chair of Jasper Remembers 9-11, Jasper County Judge Mark Allen, Jasper Mayor Anderson Land, Beech Grove Fire Chief James Gunter, VFW Commander Post 6380 James Rundberg, Members of Jasper County ESD4 Color Guard , as well as various members of area Volunteer Fire Departments paid tribute to those who were lost that day.

Next, the ceremony participants paid their respects, honoring the 13 American soldiers who were killed three years ago in Afghanistan during the botched occupation exit. As everyone remembers, America began the Afghan occupation shortly after the terrorist attack, and remained there until three years ago.

David Espinoza, Nicole Gee, Darin Hoover, Ryan Knauss, Hunter Lopez, Rylee McCollum, Dylan Merola, Kareem Nikoui, Daegan Page, Johanny Rosario Pochard, Humberto Sanchez, Jared Schmitz, and Maxton Soviak.

During the reading of the names, a bell rang for each of the 13 soldiers who sadly lost their lives, followed by Taps played by Jasper High School Sophomore and band member, Jorge Soto.

It was interesting to note that 637 dog-tags were manufactured and placed inside the monument, as well as a remnant of the Twin Towers that were destroyed that day which was sent to Jasper from members of the New York Fire Department. Ours is the only monument containing these items.

Closing prayer was given by VFW Chaplin Michael Norsworthy.

It was at that time the group moved outdoors for the placing of the wreath at the 9-11 Monument.

There are few events when nearly every single person of age can tell you with utmost certainty exactly where they were and what they were doing when it happened. September 11, 2001 was an event that every American remembers with shocking clarity. Jasper County will never forget.