Patriot Day to commemorate Sept. 11 anniversary

Even though the horrific attack that changed the country was eight years ago, many do not forget, and the community is being invited to join a Patriot Day Observance on the upcoming anniversary.

The event will be held Friday, Sept. 11 from noon until 1 p.m. on the Bedford County Courthouse square and is being presented by the Exchange Club of Bedford County, Mainstreet Shelbyville and the city's parks and recreation department

"We want to remember the American citizens who were killed and also to say thank you to our Shelbyville-Bedford County frontline responders," said Sylvia Pinson, Exchange Club member and Shelbyville parks and recreation director.

The Exchange Club is also asking merchants on the square to participate in their "Proudly We Hail" program, which encourages the regular display of the flag by individuals, commercial establishments and industries

"Moreover, the program benefits both the community and the nation by enhancing and strengthening a national sense of patriotism and pride," a letter to square merchants reads.

The observance will begin with a welcome from Bedford County Mayor Eugene Ray, followed by an American flag folding presentation and the posting of the colors.

The national anthem will be sung by Register of Deeds Johnny Reed, the Edgemont Baptist Church Men's Quartet will sing the song "Under God," and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Shelbyville Mayor Wallace Cartwright.

Emergency Management Agency director Scott Johnson will be the main speaker for the event. Sept. 11 is a memorable day for Johnson since he was supposed to be at the Pentagon for a meeting when the terrorist attack took place.

Bedford County's emergency response organizations will be recognized following Johnson's speech. They include the Tennessee National Guard, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Bedford County Sheriff's Department, Shelbyville's police and fire departments, Volunteer Fire Services Inc., Bedford County Emergency Medical Service, Bedford County Emergency Management Agency, the 911 Communications Center and Bedford County Rescue Unit.

A prayer will be offered by Shelbyville Police Department Chaplain Bobby Scott and a special proclamation will be made by Ray.

Rebecca Jones and Cindi Loso of the Bedford County Exchange Club will speak about the Proudly We Hail Program and patriotic songs will be led by Duane Drake.

Downtown merchants displaying the flag in September will receive a Proudly We Hail plaque and Bedford County is to be honored for its continuous display of the flag at the courthouse.

Learn more

For more information on the Sept. 11 observance call Sylvia Pinson at Shelbyville Recreation Center, 684-9780.