September 11, 2018
Lee Fuller
On September 11, 2001 most of us watched in horror as the tragic events unfolded. I personally was pregnant with my fist child and sat in disbelief as the news story broke. I watched live as the second plane crashed and then the Pentagon was crashed into, followed by the downing of the plane in Pennsylvania. I remember being numbed with shocked. The day for some was far worse, as countless families were affected forever by the loss of their loved ones during these horrific acts of terrorism. One of the fallen on that day was Jacksonville’s own Major Dwayne Williams who lost his life while serving at the Pentagon. In his memory, as well as a to honor all those lost and injured, the City of Jacksonville hosted a Ceremony at the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville today September 11th.
Michael B. Abrams, who serves on the City’s Civil Service Board, proceeded as the Master of Ceremonies. Mr. Abrams also explained that Mrs. Pearl Williams, Mother of Major Dwayne Williams, was unable to attend due to illness. A seat was left vacant behind the pulpit in her honor. In addition, the 4th pew was reserved and left empty to honor the four planes and all the occupants that were lost.
Reverend Derek Staples did a wonderful Invocation followed by the posting of colors by the JSU ROTC cadets, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Susan Patterson then sang a stirring rendition of the National Anthem
Mayor Smith was unable to attend so Albertha “Burt” Grant the City Administrator welcomed all those in attendance. Expressions were then shared by Dr. Don Killingsworth and Commissioner for Calhoun County, Fred Wilson. Dr. Killingsworth did note that President Beehler was unable to attend due to recovering from hip surgery. He then shared his personal story from that day. He was working his first real job and had actually flown out of New York the day prior. He also shared how Mrs. Pearl Williams actually helped him achieve his first job. Mr. Wilson then took the stage to discuss Major Williams many accomplishments, including his Bronze Star, his appointment at the US Embassy in Cairo, Egypt, and his final appointment at the Pentagon where he served two months prior to his passing. Mr. Wilson also focused on how this event changed all of our lives and created a void in our hearts. He also stated this ceremony and others like it are a tribute to the living and dead. We should all remember God, County, and Family and how we pulled together after this tragedy. After these wonderful expressions Mr. Bob White led the First Baptist Church choir in an uplifting singing of God Bless America.
Major Cory Roberts, a Professor of Military Science JSU ROTC, then delivered the introduction for the Keynote Speaker, Lt. Col. Rosun A. Steele; listing her many achievements. Lt. Col. Steel resides in Jacksonville with her husband and two children and is currently the Commander of the Anniston Munitions Center at the Anniston Army Depot. Lt. Col Steel gave such a heartfelt speech as she talked about being deployed two days after Christmas and seeing her Father crying for the first time in her life as he took her to the airport. She talked about defending what is best of America. She acknowledged that while America isn’t perfect she has traveled all over the world and America is the closet she has ever seen to perfection. She discussed the competitive sport of complaining on social media, but challenged us all to do more and let our deeds speak more than our words. She challenged us all to spread hope and to remember our families and honor the time we have with them. Finally she challenged us all to be there for someone else. To be the thing that lends someone else strength when they are down.
At the conclusion of this powerful address the choir sang an equally moving version of America the Beautiful followed by an instrumental version of the Military Service Medley. All attendees were invited to stand as they heard their service song. All branches of the services were represented by attendees except the Coast Guard.
Col. Gregg Pass of the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville led the laying of the Wreaths in Mrs. Williams absence. Ms. Mikaela Watkins who was the recipient of the Maj. Williams Citizenship Award at Kitty Stone also presented a wreath, as well as Don Long of the Marine Corps League. All wreaths will be moved to the city Cemetery where Major Williams has a plot.
The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Honor guard then commenced to perform the fallen comrade ceremony followed by Sherriff Matthew Wade of the Calhoun County Sherriff playing the bagpipes. A 21 gun salute was performed by the honor guard followed by George Worman performing taps on trumpet.
The JSU ROTC then retired the colors and Dr. Rev. Gloria Haynes, of the Players Chapel in Anniston said the benediction. Mr. Abrams
concluded by thanking all the participants.
