North Myrtle Beach Commemorates the 23rd Anniversary of 9/11
On another reflective September 11th, the charming city of North Myrtle Beach came together to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost during the tragic terrorist attacks in 2001. With bowed heads and heavy hearts, folks from all walks of life gathered at the horseshoe, where Ocean Boulevard meets Main Street, to pay their respects at an emotional remembrance ceremony.
Community Spirit Shines Bright
The day was filled with somber yet spirited observances, reminding us all of the strength of our community. Earlier that morning, the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb took place at Surfside Beach, where participants climbed the Surfside Pier 28 times to symbolize the steps first responders took amid chaos at the World Trade Center. It was an awe-inspiring sight that brought chills down your spine.
A lovely gesture by the Conway Fire Department, wherein their aerial trucks elevated ladders over the Main Street bridge, saw local veterans waving American flags with pride. The solemnity continued as one ladder was lowered at 8:46 a.m. and the second at 9:03 a.m., marking the exact times the towers were struck.
Musical Tributes and Community Gathering
As the day unfolded, the city saw hundreds of folks raising their voices in song, joining in heartfelt renditions of Amazing Grace, God Bless America, and the National Anthem in both Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach. Mighty emotional, the remembrance service in Myrtle Beach took place in Warbird Park at the Unity Memorial, featuring steel and rivets from the fallen towers, a gift celebrating the city’s hospitality for 9/11 families seeking solace after such a horrific event.
Myrtle Beach’s Mayor Brenda Bethune shared her personal experience of visiting the World Trade Center museum, recalling how she was brought to tears watching footage from that fateful day. She reminded the crowd of about 300 that “that day will be forever etched in our minds and in our hearts.”
Voices of Experience
Among the speakers was Dan Tompkins, a retired New York City firefighter, who reminded attendees that the mental and physical toll of that day is still felt today by many first responders. His heartfelt plea to share the stories of that day with younger generations resonated deeply with everyone present. “It’s through the support of our communities that we find comfort and strength,” he said.
Retired NYC police officer Karen Mulcahy Normile also shared her heart-wrenching memories of 9/11. She described the overwhelming grief of the aftermath and the extraordinary acts of bravery she witnessed during those harrowing days. “In the blink of an eye, our world was shattered,” she reflected as her husband stood by her side, supporting her emotionally as she recounted her experiences from that day.
Continuing the Legacy
As we remember the sacrifices paid, it’s important to mention that some first responders still battle health issues stemming from the toxic exposure encountered at ground zero. This day serves not only as a remembrance but also as a beacon of hope for the ongoing fight for those still affected.
In a parallel ceremony held in North Myrtle Beach, hundreds gathered to witness a scrolling tribute to victims displayed on a video board, with flags waving and fire bells ringing in remembrance, further reinforcing the theme of unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Looking Forward
Both mayors reflected on how September 11, 2001, changed our nation forever, yet as we come together to remember, we are reminded of the resilience of our country. It’s a day that propels us towards kindness and brimming patriotism in our beautiful coastal town.
As the ceremonies drew to a close, the scrolling names of the victims continued to appear on the screen, ensuring their memories remain ever-present in our hearts, as we, as a community, pledge to carry their legacy forward.
