North Carolinians Gather To Remember 9/11

North Carolinians played a major role in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks -- from its military, to its firefighters, law enforcement and medical personnel, to its volunteers.

One year later, ceremonies held across the Triangle and the state were a chance for people to come togetherand remember those who lost their lives, and a chance to reflect on the events that have shaped our lives in the last year.

In Raleigh, Governor and Mrs. Easley welcomed hundreds of people to the State Capitol.The governor issued a message of hope and unity, and songs and prayer honored the victims of the terrorist attacks.

An interfaith service was held at Exploris in downtown Raleigh. Clergy from a variety of faiths read scripture and various forms of music wasperformed.

The Triangle joined the world in commemorating those who died and those who helped others one year ago. Five choirs and members of the North Carolina Symphony performed Mozart's "Requiem," joining cities in 26 countries in what was called "The Rolling Requiem."

At the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, bells marked the moment planes hit the Pentagon and the World Trade Center towers. A procession of nearly 200 officers marched into the DBAP, and people rose to their feet in appreciation for the firefighters, paramedics, deputies and police officers who put their lives on the line each day. Mayor Bill Bell declared Sept. 11 as Patriots Day.

An Islamic mosque in Durham held a Patriot's Day observance to honor and appreciate themen and women who risk their lives for others. A small group of religious leaders andfirefighters gathered to pray for tolerance and understanding.

In Fayetteville, all fire departments pulled emergency vehicles out of their bays and into their driveways in preparation for an observance at 10:05 a.m. -- when it is believed most firefighters and rescuers died.

In the year since the terror attacks, North Carolina has sent more military personnel than any other state to fight America's War on Terror. Services were held at Fort Bragg, Cherry Point and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.