COM plans 9/11 commemoration event

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on New York City, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. To remember the many Americans who lost their lives in the terror attacks, and honor those who wear police, EMS, fire and military uniforms, College of the Mainland, in collaboration with area first responders, will hold a commemoration event Friday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., in the COM Gymnasium. Events include an emergency vehicle display, commemorative ceremony, tree dedication and a 21-gun salute.

The commemorative ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. will feature a first responder honor guard, bagpipes and patriotic and gospel music. An account of the events of Sept. 11, 2001 will be read and the names of those who lost their lives will be displayed. Texas City Police Department Chief Robert J. Burby will be the master of ceremonies for the event. Dr. Jill Carroll, adjunct professor of Religious Studies at Rice University, will speak on “The Challenge of Tolerance.” La Marque Mayor Bobby Hocking will lead the benediction.

The event will conclude with a tree dedication ceremony, 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps. The event is free and open to the public. Sponsors for the event include Emilio’s Nursery of Dickinson and First Choice Power. For more information, call 409-933-8112.