NE Florida counties to commemorate 9/11

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Thousands around the country and in northeast Florida will come together Thursday to remember the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

From Duval to Columbia counties, there is an event in nearly every county in the area.

The 9/11 events in Jacksonville will start at the Veterans Memorial Wall at 7:40 a.m.

Organizers say not only is it a day of remembrance, but a day of service as well.

Under the light of the eternal flame, the name of each of the 3,032 people killed in the 9/11 attacks will be read at the Memorial Wall.

It's just one of the ways the city of Jacksonville will spend Thursday remembering those who lost their lives.

"We do so in an area of service focusing in that are still in need of care, those that are still here serving today," said Dr. Helen Jackson, of Women of Color Cultural Foundation.

At 9 a.m., the activity moves to Metropolitan Park for a free appreciation breakfast for military personnel and first responders.

At the same time, hundreds of care packages will be assembled for deployed military members.

"So many times we don't think about the excellent service that we have here in the First Coast, not only in Jacksonville, but the surrounding counties as well," Jackson said. "So Sept. 11 is a day to give back."

At 10 a.m., the Commemoration Program starts on the Metropolitan Park main stage. The mayor, fire chief and sheriff are in the program, as well as local elementary and middle school students who will read open letters of appreciation to first responders.

Also in Duval County, Jacksonville Beach is hosting the fourth annual 9/11 Heroes 5K, which run will take place at the Sea Walk Pavilion at 6:30 p.m.

In St. Johns County, the city of St. Augustine will hold a ceremony of remembrance at 8:30 a.m. at the Main Fire Station, located at 101 Malaga Street.

In Columbia County, the city of Lake City is having a ceremony at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church, located at 182 N.E. Justice St.

Jackson said no matter where you choose to commemorate Sept. 11th, it's important to remember the sacrifices made on that day in 2001, and the sacrifices made by so many today.

"We want to show them physically that we appreciate them by showing our support, coming there, shaking their hands, telling them what a good job they do," Jackson said.