USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea -- On the anniversary of 9/11, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) paid tribute to the 2,996 people who perished and the heroes who risked their lives, by conducting a 5K run and a 9/11 tribute workout.
Both activites were organized by Truman's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), while Truman's Chief Selectees hosted the ceremony.
America's history was forever changed Sept. 11, 2001, when the World Trade Center fell.
"It's an amazing feeling to put blood, sweat and tears into something that supports a huge part of our American history," said Airman Ashton Abatte, a participant in MWR's fitness tribute. "9/11 is one of the main reasons that pushed me to choose to serve my country."
The tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, had an impact that could not be foreseen by its perpetrators.
"We commemorate 9/11 because it is important for every American to never forget the lives that were lost that day," said Senior Chief Yeoman Tonja Williams, ceremony coordinator. "As Sailors, it is important for us to remember 9/11 so that we can follow our mission to serve and protect our country."
The would be the inspiration for a future generation of Sailors.
"The [range in] age of [most of] our crew here on Truman is between 19 and 24," said Capt. S. Robert Roth, Truman's commanding officer. "When I think of the courage of those young men and women who, with all of the boundless opportunities available in this great country, decided to join our military during a war against a cowardly and often invisible enemy, I am proud and humbled by the opportunity to serve with them."
The willingness of these young Sailors, not to mention their more experienced leaders, demonstrates the resilience and determination of the American people to defend democracy and everything for which it stands.
"We're training hard, preparing our ship and our team to go into harm's way to engage the enemy and stand ready to protect our freedom," said Roth. "I hope you feel a renewed spirit within you tonight as we remember the men and women who lost their lives on 9/11."
