Today we marked the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States on 11 September 2001, with a flag-raising ceremony at County Hall, Exeter.
The Union Flag was raised and lowered to half-mast at exactly 1.46pm, the time the first aircraft struck the North Tower of the World Trade Centre in New York.
The event provided an opportunity for representatives from Devon’s emergency services, council Aldermen, and staff to remember those who lost their lives in New York, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania in the attacks, and to honour the bravery and sacrifice of the emergency responders.
Today served as an opportunity not only to remember those affected by the attacks, but also to recognise the ongoing work of emergency services and public organisations that help keep communities safe across the world.
In the years that followed the attacks, the UK saw significant changes to national security, counter-terrorism legislation and international policy. The attacks also shaped public debate around security, resilience and the protection of critical infrastructure, while influencing the UK’s military involvement overseas.
The legacy of 9/11 has also been felt across the emergency services, with fire, police and strengthening multi-agency working and national resilience arrangements.
Chair of Devon County Council Rosie Dawson said:
“The consequences of that day travelled far beyond New York, Washington and Pennsylvania, and the effects of the images that we saw and the lives lost on that day reached across the world.
“I wish to thank everyone who came today to mark this occasion, and want to reiterate our permanent gratitude to our blue light services across our county and across our whole country for the sacrifices you continue to make every single day. Thank you.”
The Deputy Lieutenant of Devon and former Chief Fire Officer, Lee Howell OBE QFSM, said:
“On this anniversary, we remember with profound respect all those who lost their lives on 11 September 2001, and all those whose lives were changed forever by the events of that day. We also remember the courage and selflessness shown by those who responded, and the communities who came together in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Today, we honour their memory and recognise the contribution of those who respond whenever our communities need them most.
“As Devon remembers the events of 11 September 2001, the anniversary serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, public service and international cooperation in responding to the challenges faced by communities across the world.”