Norfolk Naval Shipyard Commemorates Patriot Day with Annual Fall-In and Remembrance Ceremony

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, Americans began their day unaware of the imminent tragedy about to unfold. At 8:46 a.m., American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, followed by United Airlines Flight 175 hitting the South Tower, changing history in mere moments. The Pentagon was struck by American Airlines Flight 77, while the heroics of United Airlines Flight 93’s passengers thwarted another potential disaster by bringing it down in Shanksville, Penn.

In total, 2,977 people from 93 nations died in these attacks, marking it as the deadliest terrorist act on American soil. Amidst the devastation, the U.S. found resilience and unity. Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) continues to commemorate Sept. 11 with the annual Patriot Day Fall-In for Colors, honoring both the victims and the brave first responders. Hosted by the NNSY Veterans Employee Readiness Group (VET-ERG) and the Chief Petty Officers Mess, the ceremony allowed participants to share their experiences and reflect on the impact of that day.

Chief Warrant Officer (CW03) Edward Williams, a keynote speaker, recounted his experience. “I was a Boatswain’s Mate on USS Lake Champlain and was headed to Manhattan,” he said. “When the planes hit, I was nearby. The chaos, smoke, and debris were overwhelming. It wasn’t until I got home, covered in debris, that I realized the gravity of the attack.” His recollections emphasize the deep personal and national impact of the attack.

Another speaker, Machinist’s Mates Chief Tim Barth, remembered the eerie silence in his school as students watched the news in stunned silence. “The hallways were silent except for the broadcast. Everyone remembers where they were that day,” he shared. His narrative highlights how deeply the events resonated across generations.

Shipyard Commander Capt. Jip Mosman reaffirmed the ongoing mission of the NNSY. “The pride following Sept. 11 remains strong. Our task is crucial: to prepare ships and submarines for Sailors defending our Nation. We run on people, not just machines, and our collective effort ensures mission readiness,” Mosman stated.