Virginia Beach Unites in Heartfelt Tribute at 9/11 Freedom Walk

Virginia Beach, USA - On a sunny day in Virginia Beach, hundreds gathered to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The event, part of a series of seven Freedom Walks throughout the Hampton Roads area, aimed to honor the victims and pay tribute to U.S. servicemembers, veterans, police, and firefighters. Rear Adm. Rick Ruehe, commander of Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, expressed a strong message about the importance of community and military support in the ongoing global fight against terrorism. Local television news anchor Joe Flanagan, hosting the ceremony, highlighted the collective appreciation for those who serve our country.

Virginia Beach Mayor Meyera Oberndorf also participated in this significant day, expressing her honor in joining military leaders for the Freedom Walk, an event connecting the region in remembrance of the tragic day. The walk began at the iconic King Neptune statue at 31st Street, stretching across an 18-block round-trip along the beautiful oceanfront. Families participated, including a mother and her five-year-old daughter, both eager to show their support for the troops while remembering the victims.

Highlights from the Honor Walk

A notable part of the commemoration was the ‚9/11 Honor Walk‘, which made its way along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. This year’s event marked the 19th anniversary of the attacks, with participation from multiple local heroes, including members of the Virginia Beach Fire Department (VBFD) and Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD), along with US Navy SEALs and retired military personnel. Volunteers were tasked with carrying a heavy yet inspirational symbol—a 700-pound ‚9/11 Honor Log‘ developed by the nonprofit organization Carry On. This arduous task required six people to carry the log, serving as a powerful reminder of shared sacrifice and commitment.

The walk spanned approximately six miles, kicking off at 9:11 a.m. from the Navy SEAL Memorial located at 38th Street. Participants made their way to Second Street and back to the Law Enforcement Memorial on 35th Street. Jeremy Soles, Executive Director of Carry On, has emphasized the need to memorialize the dedication and service of first responders since that fateful day in 2001. Additionally, Carry On has plans in motion to transport the Honor Log to significant sites like Washington D.C., Shanksville, PA, and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) to honor those who fell that day.

One captivating story came from Scott Flansbaum, a US Marine Corps combat veteran and co-coordinator of the Honor Walk. Flansbaum had been told he may never walk again due to a medical accident; however, he defied the odds and now walks with the help of robotic legs. Alongside retired Navy SEAL Dom Raso, Flansbaum aims to inspire others through their journey—a true testament to resilience and hope.

Honoring the Spirit of 9/11

The essence of these commemorations resonates deeply with the wider national sentiment. Various communities across the country observe moments of silence, organize 5K memorial runs, and participate in stair climbs to honor the 343 first responders who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation sponsors stair climbs that involve climbing the equivalent of 110 stories, replicating the height of the World Trade Center. Additionally, organizations like the Travis Manion Foundation host 9/11 Heroes Runs to celebrate the bravery of veterans, first responders, and civilians affect by the tragic events.

The goal extends beyond remembrance; it’s about community engagement and support for local veterans and first responders. Those interested in volunteering or participating in remembrance activities can find more details on sites like 911day.org. In these ways, every community can find its own meaningful way to commemorate 9/11, keeping alive the spirit of resilience and solidarity that emerged from those dark days.

In Virginia Beach and beyond, as we reflect on our history and honor those who serve and protect, it’s clear that such remembrance events foster a sense of togetherness, allowing us to stand united in the face of adversity.