MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Marines and sailors from commands across the base will be on hand to take part in the city of Jacksonville and Onslow County's 8th annual Patriot Day observance ceremony at Lejeune Memorial Gardens Thursday to commemorate those who lost their lives on 9/11. Along with the 2nd Marine Division Band, the base will provide a color guard, victims' representatives, first responders and additional logistical support.
“It means a great deal for us to be a part of this solemn remembrance by the community,” said Col. Jim Clark, Deputy Commander, Marine Corps Installations East. “It allows us all to reflect on the extraordinary sacrifices of emergency responders, citizens, and our military during this terrible tragedy and its aftermath. It also serves as a sobering reminder that this nation remains on a wartime footing and we should all redouble our efforts to stay continually vigilant and prepared.”
To that end, Camp Lejeune is supporting FEMA's National Preparedness Month information campaign throughout September with the goal to inspire residents to refine contingency plans to mitigate potential disasters in the future, according to Eric Carlson, Installation Emergency Manager.
“9/11 is an appropriate time to remind people to think about disaster planning and be prepared. We are also just entering the prime months for hurricane activity and winter's just around the corner, so we need to continue our preparedness and vigilance. The bottom line is, we can never afford to not be prepared; have a plan for any emergency.”
Clark also advised residents if they see anything suspicious to call Camp Lejeune's Eagle Eyes hotline at 451-3333 and report it immediately.
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