911 ceremony in South Lake Tahoe: Let freedom ring in all we do

September 11, 2001 - It's been 17 years since America experienced a tragedy that will never be forgotten. 2,983 people, ages 3-to-79, died that day in New York, Virginia and Philadelphia. In 17 years, time has not lessened or dissolved the sense of loss that occurred that day.

To honor 9-11 in South Lake Tahoe, the American Legion held their annual ceremony Tuesday with first responders, veterans and the community present to remember a day that not only was a time of death and destruction, but also a day of courage, heroism and love.

Bob St. Angelo of the American Legion Post 795 led the ceremony. He said the day the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor was forever remembered by the previous generation, and September 11 will be a date for our generation to always remember.

South Lake Tahoe Fire Chief Jeff Meston led the "striking of the four fives", a ringing of the fire bell to alert the town when a firefighter or important person died, a tradition dating back to the 1800s.

Mayor Wendy David spoke to those who were gathered and asked them to use 9-11 as a reminder to be kinder, be gentler and be more generous in honor of those who died.

"Let freedom ring loud in all we do," said St. Angelo. "Honor those who protect us so freedom can continue in our lives."