The 10th anniversary of the September 11 attacks was commemorated by a small ceremony at the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) today. In attendance were the United States Consul General Valerie Belon, Mr. Laurens Warnink representing the Governor of Curacao, and CDR Willem Groeneveld representing the Netherlands Forces in the Caribbean.
Chaplain Bridges welcomed the guests and delivered the invocation prayer. The Chaplain said in his remembrance prayer: "On this day, we remember our neighbors, of different nations and backgrounds, who died in the attacks we simply call 9-11. Hear our prayers for their loved ones. May they know the comfort that comes from knowledge and love of you. May they be surrounded by communities that care for them, even as you continue to care for this fragile and suffering world."
USFOL Commander Lieutenant Colonel Rick Bailey finished his comments with the following words: "Let us endeavor, from this day forward, to dedicate our efforts to making this world a better place for future generations. Let us honor the memory of the fallen by lifting up those around us, and giving opportunities to those less fortunate. Let us fight injustice and tyranny no matter where they grow, and do so with international resolve, dedication, partnership and common focus. And let those efforts be a constant reminder that those we’ve lost over the last ten years did not die in vain. Laga nos semper semper rekorda. Let us always always remember."
"We are grateful for the sympathy and various acts of kindness we received from within the entire Dutch Caribbean after these tragic events occurred. Your support over the years was heartfelt and it reinforces the strong partnership between the islands of the Dutch Caribbean and the United States," Consul General Valerie Belon said.