The Joint Readiness Training Center and Ft. Johnson presented their annual Patriot Day program Monday, September 11, at 9 a.m. in remembrance of the 22nd Anniversary of 9-11. The event was held in the main fire station house and was attended by local civilian leaders, members of the United States Army, fire personnel, and visitors.
Chaplain Colonel Michael L. Jeffries offered the invocation for the morning, and fire personnel from the post tolled a bell as the crowd observed thirty seconds of silence.
The Commanding General of Ft. Johnson, Brigadier General David W. Gardner, remarked on the spirit of America as unbreakable and spoke about the sacrifices made by so many in connection with the events of that day. General Gardner also spoke to the recent sacrifices made by local firefighters and emergency personnel while battling wildfires in West Cental Louisiana.
A memorial wreath was presented in honor of the day by General Gardner, Command Sergeant Major David P. Hanson, Fire Chief David J. Kass, and Staff Sergeant Kahnun Daigle of the Audie Murphy Club.
Live music was provided by the combined bands of Pickering and Rosepine High Schools. They executed a flawless version of our National Anthem and a rousing rendition of The Army Song (Caissons). The duet of Taps to end the ceremony featuring Kyla Kersey of Pickering and Bishop Busby of Rosepine was stunning.
The public is always invited to attend special event ceremonies on post.
