September 11 is a day Americans will never forget. It is bored into our memories as the deadliest terrorist attack on American soil in U.S. history.
Fairfield Harbour remembered the 22nd anniversary of 9/11 with reflective tributes and testimonies to “Never Forget.” The 6 p.m. ceremony was attended by Fairfield Harbour residents, the current and past POA Board members, community managers, and honored guests.
Tina McLamb, current FHPOA director, started the ceremony with opening remarks and introductions and reminded us that 9/11 was a somber occasion. The U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard presented the colors, and Andi Oster sang the "Star Spangled Banner." The Girl Scouts of Craven, Jones, and Pamlico Counties led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Craig Cooper sang "Watch Over Those Who Are Watching Over Me." The wreath presentation, by Cory Farnham, TCVFD, and Van Page, TCVFD, was especially moving as it was placed near the Fairfield Harbour 9/11 Memorial.
Dennis Piper followed with a bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace.” David Pfefferkorn, FHPOA Director, led the group in a Moment of Silence. Chase Montgomery from TCVFD rang the bell.
The Bridgton Methodist Church Choir joined this year's ceremony with two songs – "America the Beautiful" and "Let There Be Peace On Earth.”
The guest speaker was Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes, a Fairfield Harbour resident. Sheriff Hughes spoke of where he was at the time 9/11 was announced.
This is something every American remembers – exactly where they were during the 9/11 attack. Sheriff Hughes told how he and his fellow officers sprang into action to help ensure the safety of all residents in this area. Sheriff Hughes is adamant about how much he appreciates Fairfield Harbour, especially for our patriotic dedication to our country. Thank you, Sheriff Hughes, for your service. We are proud and honored to have you with us.
Andi Oster retook the stage with accompanist Betsy Hall to perform "God Bless America." An incredibly touching part of the ceremony was when Kyra Blowe from Girl Scout Troop 3818 recited a poem, “Where the Towers Stood.” She was followed by Caroline Chapman, Troop 1007, to recite “Freedom Isn’t Free.”
Bob Dumon, although he could not attend the ceremony this year, supplied his prerecorded Military Medley, where all branches of service stood when their anthem was played. Craig Cooper sang a crowd pleaser, "God Bless the USA," and many attendees sang along.
In closing, Joy Pikor offered Reflections on how, twenty years ago, Americans came together – bonded by sadness and patriotism – after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Thank you, Tina McLamb, for your closing remarks, and special thanks to Bob Broody, FHPOA director, for his rendition of TAPS.
After the ceremony, residents and guests attended a reception in the Community Center, where drinks and sweets were served.
History of Fairfield Harbour’s 9/11 Memorial
Following the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001, the Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department requested and was awarded two pieces of artifact steel from the ruins of the World Trade Center. The land for the Memorial was given and forever dedicated by the FHOA to serve as the final resting place for the steel. Fairfield Harbour resident Betsy Conzelman designed and engineered the site and built it with donations from property owners, local contractors, and vendors. The Memorial was officially dedicated on September 11, 2011.
A special thank you to the 9/11 committee, our supporters, Al Asheuer for the video, Benny Thompson, and Howard Neviser for the photography. And special recognition to Will Caudle and the F.H. Maintenance Crew for their help.