September 11 memorial service planned in Towns County

HIAWASSEE, Ga – Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the worst terror attack on United States soil as well as the deadliest single day incident for firefighters and law enforcement officers.

On September 11, 2001, a series of four attacks were executed by al-Quaeda. Two planes hit the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, another plane crashed into the west side of the Pentagon, and the final plane one plane went down in a Pennsylvanian field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

The attacks killed 2,977 people, injured over 6,000, and numerous long-term health consequences. 344 of those killed were firefighters and 71 law enforcement officers. 55 military personnel were killed at the Pentagon. Most of the casualties of the attacks were unsuspecting civilians: 2,605 from the United States and 372 non-U.S. citizens.

The event begins at 9:45 a.m. on Saturday at Hiawassee Square. The tribute planned by Mayor Liz Ordiales will feature bagpipes from Saint Andrew’s Pipes and various speakers. The National Honor Guard will also be present, and Hiawassee will pay tribute it’s Purple Heart Recipients. Recently, Hiawassee became a Purple Heart City.

New banners honoring heroes will be surrounding the square.