Sounding Taps in Culpeper on Sept. 11

In remembrance of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, and to honor those whose lives were taken that day, I propose to sound Taps on Sept. 11, 2009, in the town of Culpeper.

I will begin in front of the fire station on West Davis Street at precisely 8:46 a.m, the time that American Airlines Flight 11 flew into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. This first location is chosen to pay special tribute to all of the firefighters who perished that day.

At 9:03 a.m., I will sound Taps in front of the Sheriff’s Office on West Davis Street. This is the time that United Flight 175 hit the South Tower. This second location is chosen to honor all police personnel who perished that day in heroic efforts of sacrifice in protecting and assisting others.

I will then proceed to Culpeper National Cemetery, Old Section, on U.S. Avenue to sound Taps at 9:40 a.m. in honor of all the military killed as American Flight 77 struck the Pentagon.

At 10:06 a.m., the time that United Flight 93 crashed in Shanksville, Pa., I will sound Taps at the intersection of Main and Davis streets to honor all of the heroic citizens who gave their lives that day in order to save hundreds more.

After sounding the final Taps, I will play a verse of “America the Beautiful” as a way of remembering all of the innocent citizens that perished that day as a result of this horrific attack — and also for those who have since sacrificed their lives for the freedom we Americans must never take for granted.

Remember Sept. 11, 2001. May God Bless America!

Gerry Schuck
Culpeper
Virginia director, Bugles Across America