North Myrtle Beach Holds Heartfelt 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
On a warm autumn afternoon in North Myrtle Beach, a community came together to pay tribute to the lives lost during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. This year, the remembrance ceremony took place on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, marking a significant 23 years since that fateful day, a day that shook the nation and changed our lives forever.
A Beautiful Setting for Reflection
The ceremony was held at the iconic Horseshoe, a local gathering spot located at the intersection of Ocean Boulevard and Main Street. As the sun shone bright, a sense of calm washed over the nearly 300 attendees, who gathered to honor the memory of those who perished in the attacks. The gathering featured a screen displaying the names of the 2,977 Americans who lost their lives, serving as a poignant reminder of the tragedy’s lasting impact.
Emceed by Local Favorite
Emceed by WPDE’s chief meteorologist, Ed Piotrowski, the ceremony featured heartfelt speeches and performances that resonated deeply with the crowd. Mayor Marilyn Hatley was among the speakers, expressing gratitude for those who came to honor the memories of loved ones and friends lost on that day. Her words of unity and resilience struck a chord, reminding everyone of the strength we draw from one another during times of sorrow.
Special Guest Speaker Inspires the Crowd
One of the highlights of the event was guest speaker Karen Normal, a retired officer from the New York Police Department. Karen’s powerful recount of her experiences on the day of the attacks, witnessing the collapse of the Twin Towers, brought tears to many eyes. Her message of hope and strength resonated as she shared the importance of remembering those we’ve lost and celebrating the heroism shown that day. With her husband standing by for support, she invited everyone to reflect on their own personal connections to the events of 9/11.
Musical Tributes Fill the Air
The Coastal Carolina Shield Pipes and Drums added a touching musical tribute that filled the air with solemn sounds. The pipes echoed through the horseshoe, reinforcing the ceremony’s spirit of remembrance and respect. A memorable moment was when one of the pipers brought along his infant grandchild, a bright reminder of life carried on and the future still to come.
Community Unity on Display
The ceremony wasn’t just about remembering the past; it also served as a reminder of how a community can come together in times of adversity. Dozens of local police officers, firefighters, and community members gathered, demonstrating their unwavering support for one another. The applause that erupted after each speaker reflected a shared sentiment—one of togetherness and strength in unity.
A Day for Reflection
As the ceremony concluded, individuals mingled, sharing their stories and memories of 9/11, ensuring that the legacy of those lost remains alive in the hearts of the living. North Myrtle Beach once again showcased how a community can come together to remember, to heal, and to support one another, proving that while time may pass, the spirit of unity will endure.
We might have moved forward into new chapters of our lives, but September 11 will always hold a place in our history—a day to honor, remember, and reflect.
