KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- A.T. Still University has a sizeable military population and also a close relationship with local paramedics, firefighters, and police officers. This all inspired its Student Association of Military Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (SAMOPS) to host a ceremony on September 11, 2012, to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States of America.
During the ceremony, the names of nine people who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq and Afghanistan were mentioned.
The Truman State University ROTC Color Guard presented the flags. Lt. James Scholfield with SAMOPS gave a short speech, followed by Kirksville Police Chief Jim Hughes and Kirksville Fire Captain Joe Schilling. Chief Hughes reminded the crowd that 3,000 people died on 9/11, including 341 firefighters, 72 police officers, and 10 paramedics. Lt. Scholfield talked about the 6,000 soldiers who have died in the War on Terror since the September 11th Terrorist Attacks.
The speakers also urged people to reflect on how much the United States has accomplished and changed in the 11 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Hughes said people should remember how the country united to raise $2.8 billion in private donations to help with relief efforts.
"Today we will remember what had not changed," said Lt. Scholfield.
"Our character as a people has not changed. Our resolve to do what must be done has not changed. Our faith in God and each other has not changed."
"What we can take from this is that together, we have preserved and resolved ourselves to go ahead and come forward and face any challenges that put forth in front of us," said Kirksville Fire Capt. Joe Schilling.
"By doing that, there is no way that it can take what we have here in the United States away from us which is our freedom and our need to serve others."
There was a moment of silence to conclude the ceremony.
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