The US Embassy in Kuwait held a Patriot Day Remembrance ceremony on Monday at Camp Arifjan to mark the 9/11 anniversary. The ceremony was attended by several ambassadors, Kuwaiti generals and senior US Army personnel.
In his address Chargé d’Affaires James Holtsnider noted that September 11 served as a poignant reminder of how a seemingly ordinary day can quickly turn into a day of tragedy that will never be forgotten.
“Despite the terrible events of September 11, there were numerous examples of bravery and patriotism, he stated adding that they remembered the firefighters, police and first responders who answered the call to help others. Among the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives, he pointed out that the US also lost over 180 service members and civilians at the Pentagon, and more than 350 firefighters and policemen who heroically rushed into the World Trade Center to save lives,. said. “Today, on Patriot Day, let us all be reminded that patriotism can take many forms,” he added
This observance and day of remembrance serve two purposes. First, we must commemorate and never forget the innocent people who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks. Second, let this day remind us that ‘freedom is not free’,” he noted. Holtsnider praised Kuwait’s ongoing efforts in conducting joint exercises with the United States to combat terrorist activities in the region. “Kuwait has been a terrific partner over the last 20 years. It continues to be important not only for the US, but also for the rest of the world,” he pointed out.
Wreaths were placed by the US and their Coalition partners on behalf of victims of these horrific attacks and other terrorist attacks, and those who have willingly served the cause of liberty, of peace, and have struggled, fought, and died in that cause.
Ambassadors of US, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Italy and Mexico placed wreaths in honour of all those who fell.