September 11 ceremonies held at C of O and Branson Landing: Pause to Remember and Branson Remembers

[See pictures of both events in our 9/11 special section, exclusively for our online readers: www.bransonglobe.com/full-online-edition]

Across the nation, Americans gather on Patriot Day, September 11, to recall the events of that fateful day. They unite to remember the lives lost and to honor the heroes who saved countless lives on September 11, 2001.

The events of 9/11 led to the loss of nearly 3,000 lives in the devastating attacks. In New York City 2,753 people died when two hijacked airplanes crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. In Arlington, Virginia, 184 lives were lost when a plane crashed into the Pentagon. And, a fourth hijacked plane with 40 people on board crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, in a passenger revolt.

Pause to Remember

On September 11, a ceremony was held at the “Lest We Forget” memorial on the College of the Ozarks campus, to commemorate the lives of those who perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The memorial, dedicated in 2015, includes one of the last remaining pieces of the World Trade Center structure and is a fitting place to pause and honor those officers and those who continue to serve and protect their communities today. 

Students from School of the Ozarks and College of the Ozarks were joined by many in attendance in their annual Lest We Forget Ceremony, complete with patriotic musical selections from the College of the Ozarks Concert Band, a presentation by School of the Ozarks fifth grade students Honoring the Fallen.  

Following the prelude hymn, “I Need Thee Every Hour,” played by the Concert Band, C of O President Dr. Brad Johnson welcomed the many community residents and leaders, visitors to the area, and first responders gathered for the event. He also acknowledged several special guests who lost family members in the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. 

The invocation was given by Dr. Justin Carswell, Vice President for Student Development and Christian Ministries. An Honor Guard from the Branson and Western Taney County Fire Departments presented the colors, followed by playing of the National Anthem by the band. C of O Senior Cooper Knight led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Keynote speaker was Maj. Gen. Charles D. Hausman, who serves as the adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard. Hausman has served in the military for over three decades; his service includes commanding aviation units, holding key leadership roles and deployments worldwide. He holds advanced degrees in aviation safety and national security, and is a highly decorated U.S. Army officer. 

In his remarks, Hausman acknowledged the bravery of the first responders who ran toward the danger that day, not away from it, and thanked those who continue to put their lives on the line for every emergency call. “Your service is a testament to the strength of our communities and a reminder that heroes walk among us every day, quietly and selflessly dedicating their lives to protecting others.” He also acknowledged the College of the Ozarks and School of the Ozarks students present, expressing gratitude for a school “where patriotism is not just a slogan, it’s a pillar.” He challenged students to embrace the responsibility of carrying forward the lessons of 9/11 and building a future that honors the sacrifice of those who perished. 

Hausman also pointed out that what the enemy had hoped would divide America, instead ignited resolve, as increased numbers signed up for military service and more Americans focused on prayer. “In the face of evil, faith is what steadies us,” he stated. “Spiritual resilience is what makes America exceptional.”

Following Hausman’s remarks, Taney County Sheriff Brad Daniels and Paul Kirk of Taney County Ambulance District raised the New York State 9/11 Memorial Flag. Flower petals were distributed around the memorial by School of the Ozarks fifth-grade students; and a symbolic volley was given by Branson Fire Department Chief Ted Martin and Western Taney County Fire Protection District Chief Chris Berndt. The ceremony closed with Taps played by C of O senior Caleb Johnson, closing prayer by Dr. Carswell, and “America, the Beautiful” played by the band. 

The tragic timing of the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk on the day before the ceremony was not lost on those present. Following the ceremony, several attendees commented that, for those too young to personally remember details of September 11, 2001, the week’s events might serve as a connection to the emotions of that date, reminding all of us of the importance of faith and of working to preserve our heritage of freedom.  

Branson Remembers Ceremony

On the evening of September 11, area residents and visitors alike gathered at the fountains at Branson Landing for a special Branson Remembers Ceremony, in keeping a promise to the victims of 9/11 and their families that they will not be forgotten.

Presented by the Branson Veterans Task Force and hosted by the Brett Family, Branson Remembers included a presentation of the colors, special musical selections and a number of guest speakers. A presentation of Taps, tolling of the bell and moment of silence to honor the victims, first responders and all who were impacted by the attacks all combined to make this ceremony memorable.  

Those attending the two 9/11 ceremonies left with a renewed spirit of patriotism and a strong resolve to never forget the victims of September 11, 2001.