9/11 Remembrance: GRIC holds event for Patriots Day

Emma Hughes

Gila River Indian News

The Gila River Indian Community took a moment to remember the tragic event of the attacks on September 11, 2001. On the morning of the 18th anniversary Gov. Stephen Roe. Lewis, Lt. Gov.  Robert Stone and others spoke during the Patriots Day ceremony at the Governance Center. First responders and members of the Armed Forces were recognized for their service in preserving our nations freedom. 

Lt. Gov.  Robert Stone called for a moment of prayer for the families of those who lost a loved one during the attacks on 9/11, as flags were put to half staff. Gov. Lewis, who spoke about the sacrifices made by first responders at the site of the World Trade Center and those lost during the attacks on the Pentagon and passengers who stood in the face of terror on the United Airlines Flight 93, “We’re still remembering what happened to our country. Our prayers go out to those fallen and their families,” said Gov. Lewis. 

Urban Giff, Ira H. Hayes Post 84 shared his recollection of the tragic events, “it committed our first responders to do their job in a most difficult situation and they did a tremendous job and some paid the price for that,” said Giff. There was a vast response from first responders all over the country, including the Gila River Fire Department, to volunteer and proceed to New York to assist in anyway they could.

A moment of silence was held for the victims from the World Trade Center, American Airlines flight 11, United Airlines Flight 175, Flight 93, American Airlines Flight 77 and the Pentagon in Washington. To conclude the events, Ira H. Hays Post 84 honor guard performed a gun salute and taps.