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By Jessica Pate
Staff Writer
Students, faculty, staff and community members came together to remember the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and honor first responders who serve the Wilson Community.
Although most Barton students are too young to remember a lot about the attacks that day, many students still came out to remember those who died on that tragic day.
The event was held on Sept. 11, 2015 and was the first event to be held in the new Aileen and Bill Parrish Plaza located outside of Howard Chapel.
Wilson County Sherriff’s Department, Wilson Police Department, Wilson County EMS, North Carolina State Highway Patrol and North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation were also in attendance along with members of the Barton community.
The bell chimes from the bell tower rang out as those in attendance recited the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of the service.
Dr. Doug Searcy, president of Barton College, welcomed those in attendance. He said this was a time to acknowledge the impact the events of Sept. 11, 2001 had on our lives. He said it was a time to honor our nation and honor our God.
The Rev. Jamie Eubanks, chaplain of Barton College, led those in attendance in prayer asking that we are reminded of great courage and selfless service that people demonstrated on 9/11 and that people in our community demonstrate each day.
Representatives from each department present were called up and recognized for their commitment to protect the citizens of Wilson, Wilson County and North Carolina.
Jayvona McDaniel, a junior who attended the event, said, “The event was very informative and the people who spoke were very sincere.”
She also said she liked how each of the first responders were called up and recognized.
Sophomore Taylor Baker said, “The speech given by Dr. Searcy was touching and the prayer given by the Reverend Eubanks was impactful.”
Music was provided by the Bartonaires, who performed a patriotic a cappella specifically arranged for this event. Barton student Myra Stotebury played “Taps.”
