Apex unveils 9/11 service memorial

The memorial stands as a symbol of sacrifice and hope, and its design pays tribute to the American heroes who have fought on the battlefield since 9/11 and the men and women who lost their lives that day.

Apex resident Evelyn Alizea lost her sister when the North Tower collapsed.

"It's not 10 years for us," she said. "It's like everyday, everyday, everyday, like she hasn't gone at all."

Commemorative engraved bricks line the walkway of the memorial. Alizea bought one in memory of her sister.

On top of the memorial is the 6-inch cube of steel beam from the World Trade Center's South Tower.

Retired New York City firefighter T.J. Deluca – now a volunteer firefighter in Apex – worked at Ground Zero for about four months before he and his family moved to North Carolina seven years ago.

He said the memorial is a fitting tribute to those who serve and protect.

"It means regardless of what happens today, we can build and become better tomorrow," Deluca said. "That's the message of this memorial for me."