Politics & Government
Bowie Salutes America on 9/11 Anniversary
The U.S. Naval Academy Band concert brought out people of all ages to mark the anniversary of the tragic day.
The City of Bowie invited the community to enjoy a patriotic evening of music and remembrance for the victims of 9/11, marking the 10th anniversary of the day that changed America forever.
The Salute to America Concert was originally scheduled to take place at Allen Pond Park, but due to recent weather, it was relocated to the Bowie Senior Center on Sunday. The Salute to America Concert was held to inspire and encourage people to revisit the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and how the tragedy brought people together.
“When you put events like this together and people come out and show patriotism, it means a lot because people will never forget what happened and what this country has been,” Bowie Mayor G. Frederick Robinson said.
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At the entrance of the center on Northview Drive, the Bowie Police Department and Bowie Fire Department welcomed people by displaying the U.S. flag, held up by two Bowie Volunteer Fire Department tower trucks that were responders at the World Trade Center Towers in New York City on 9/11, where they were damaged by the collapse of the buildings. The trucks were then purchased by the Bowie Volunteer Fire Department, refurbished and put to use as Towers 39 and 43.
As people found their seats, the concert opened with a slideshow tribute. The mayor welcomed the community, recognized the Bowie Police Department and Bowie Volunteer Fire Department and introduced the elected officials. As the crowd stood while the Bowie High School JROTC presented the colors, they joined in singing the national anthem and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to show respect.
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In addition, a moment of silence and reflection took place to remember the anniversary of the most devastating terrorist attacks since the nation's founding, to pray for those who died, and those who saved others, to consider new ways of being citizens to the world, and to hope for healing and reconciliation for the country and for all countries of the world.
Although this was a sad time for many, the sounds of the United States Naval Academy Concert Band brought comfort and warmth. The Concert Band performed songs by a variety of musicians, ranging from Aaron Copeland, Slava and Shenandoah. They performed songs that spoke to Americans about their country, love and hope. Ten candles were lit signifying how many had to say goodbye to loved ones and also signifying hope for the future.
“Being able to be a part of this event felt great,” a Bowie High School student that was passing out programs at the door said. “I was only 6 when the terrorist attack happened so I really wasn’t sure that was going on but now that I am older; I see how important that will forever be not only to my parents, my friends but the whole world.”
Coming to the end of the concert, the United States Naval Academy Concert Band asked the crowd to join in singing and waving their flags while they lead the songs, “Proud to be an American” and “God Bless the U.S.A.” to dedicate to the men and women who have served or are still serving the country.