NAPLES, Italy — Service members and families at U.S. Naval Hospital Naples, at Naval Support Activity Naples, marked the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks with a morning ceremony featuring the raising of colors, prayers and the tolling of bells by chief selects. Remarks were delivered by Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa, and Command Master Chief Javier Ramiro.
“The attacks of September 11th were intended to break our spirit. Instead, we emerged stronger and more unified than ever,” Ramiro said.
After the ceremony, Munsch said, “It’s important that we remember the events and the people of 9/11 … this helps transfer the memory from those of us that are old enough to have experienced it,” noting many younger service members have no firsthand memory of the day. He called the attacks a unifying moment for the nation, adding, “We united, and we defended our values.”
The event emphasized remembrance, reflection and renewal — an annual call to honor the victims, first responders and all who have served since, while recommitting to the mission of protecting the United States and its allies.