JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md –
Airmen and mission partners will pay tribute to the day and memories during a Patriot Day observance, Sept. 11, at 7 a.m at Heritage Park here.
Military members, civilians and family members are all welcome to visit the observance, where a single formation will be made up of first responders, including Air Force Security Forces, firefighters and medics.
The plan of events is for "Reveille" to sound at 7 a.m., followed by "To the Colors," and honors to the American flag. After honors are paid to Old Glory, the ceremony will include a short series of comments regarding the events that took place on 9/11, followed by the playing of "Taps," and an address from the host 11th Wing and Joint Base Andrews commander, Col. Bradley Hoagland.
There is particular protocol which all service members at JBA, whether attending the observance or not, should adhere to.
"Taps" will play over the installation's Giant Voice system at 7 a.m., 8:46 a.m., 9:03 a.m., 9:37 a.m. and 10:28 a.m.; the time of the scheduled observance to honor First Responders, followed by the times of the four 9/11 attacks.
"At these times, we ask that you reflect on significance of this day and on those who were lost then and since," said Chief Master Sgt. Vance Kondon, 11th Wing command chief. "If you are outside during those time, please render proper courtesies by facing the flag if visible or sound of the music. Come to the position of attention and render a hand salute during the playing of 'Taps' if military in uniform. Civilians should place their right hand over their heart."
(89th AW Public Affairs contributed to this story)