September 11 Memorial at Veterans Park

Remembrance of September 11 is a part of American lives that cannot be understated. For 25 years, the event has been recognized with memorials for the fallen, acknowledgement of the heroes that day, and the ever-present message: Never forget. To that end, The Chamber of Commerce, City of Sparta, White County, and more all came together for a brief memorial service at Veterans Park. There were many speakers, each giving a piece of their own experience and the message they took away that day.

It was a rather short-notice event. Brent Young, director of the chamber, and Executive Kyle Goff wanted to have something to recognize the day. The crowd that gathered, dozens upon dozens, with multiple excellent speakers showed how important this day was- short notice was not going to stop anybody from attending if they could.

“We are coming together to honor those who died, the amazing, heroic workers and members of the community whose lives were changed forever,” said Brent Young.

Kyle Goff’s speech brought up a lesser acknowledged aspect of September 11, the day that followed, when thousands upon thousands of Americans worked together to provide aid, assistance, and show they would not sit aside. He said, “We were proud of our wounded nation that day. We saw America was vulnerable, but it is resilient. So, let’s not forget September 11, but maybe just as importantly, let’s not forget the unity on September 12.”

Mayor Jerry Lowery’s speech was fiery, and passionate. He had already written extensively for September 11 in Friday’s publication of The Expositor, but in person, he channeled more of that passion. He finished his speech saying, “Terrorists wanted America to stand in fear, but instead we stood together. We remember the fallen, we remember the heroes, and we will never forget.”

Bobby Officer shared a personal anecdote about the day. As an educator, on the day and following weeks, he had many children who came to him. Whether curious or scared, Officer had reassured them that they were safe. Overtime, though, he noticed less kids came to him year after year. The day had, at least for young people who did not experience it, faded away in terms of fear. So, while kids today may not have the personal connection to the event, it is still just as important to educate and remind them of this day.

Mark Johnson with the American Legion held a brief moment of silence for victims of that day, veterans, and those still in harm’s way. He spoke about how even small communities like ours were important to that fateful day, saying, “Our enemies thought they could break our American spirit: they clearly didn’t know places like White County.”

Amos Rogan delivered the closing prayer, and everyone walked away with the knowledge that, for White County at least, we will never forget.