US Consul Karen Grissette hosted a wreath laying ceremony today on September 11 at the US Consulate today, marking the 20th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks that flattened the World Trade Centre towers.
Ceremonies were held around the world today including another service to mark that fateful day when close to 3,000 people lost their lives, when the twin towers were flattened.
Those in attendance included Premier David Burt, Bermuda’s Governor Rena Lalgie, and Deputy Premier Walter Roban.
Representatives from Warwick Academy were on hand for the ceremony to honour two former students who lost their lives that day, to pay tribute to former WA student Rhondell Tankard, former Saltus student Boyd Gatton and Robert Higley.
Members of the Tankard family were on hand for the ceremony that was followed by another Memorial event at Warwick Academy.
US Karen Grissette said noted that nearly 3,000 men, women and children lost their lives in New York, Arlington And Shanksvill in the United States on that fateful day.
Premier David Burt said: “I am honoured to be here today for the opportunity to pay homage to the nearly 3,000 lost during the tragic events of September 11th, 2001.
“We also remember Bermudians Rhondelle Tankard and Boyd Gatton.”
He also noted that Rhondelle Tankard “would have celebrated her 52nd birthday next January”.
“Boyd Gatton would have celebrated his 59th birthday on October 8th,” he added.
“Now 20 years later, the shock and loss is remembered today and we will continue to keep their friends and families in our thoughts and in our prayers,” said Mr Burt.
US Consul General Karen Grissette said: “We can all still recount the moment we first learned of the attacks….and no matter where you were in the world, these tragic moments had a lasting impact on our lives.
“Today, we remember those who perished in the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and Shanksville including the heroic first responders who gave their lives to help others.
“America promised to never forget the events that occurred on 9/11, remembering the thousands of lives that were lost, and the American heroes who were grievously wounded or laid down their lives to keep the rest of us safe.
She also thanked the Governor and Premier for commemorating the anniversary of 9/11.
“We are grateful to our allies and partners around the world, who stood with us at one of America’s most difficult moments, 20 years ago. Our commitment to our allies, especially Bermuda and the United Kingdom remains unshakable,” she added.
“We are honored and thankful to have with us today Ms Tankard’s uncle – Dr Radell Tankard – and his wife Mrs Mellisa Gibbons Tankard. Your presence here is so meaningful to each of us. I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your entire family.
“Thank you to Saltus Grammar School and Warwick Academy, for helping their families keep the memory of Rhondelle Tankard, Boyd Gatton, and Robert Higley alive.
“To everyone here today, thank you for remembering with us. Today, recommit ourselves to working toward a more peaceful world for ourselves and our children. It has been an honor to stand alongside you this morning to reaffirm our partnership, and I thank you for joining me.”
- Feature Photos Supplied
