U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) Midshipmen Action Group (MAG), in collaboration with the Annapolis community, held their September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance, Sept 9.

The event commemorated the 16th anniversary of the victims, survivors and those who rose up in service in response to the terrorist attacks on 9/11. This is MAG's first large volunteer project of the academic year.

"The Brigade begins its semester of community engagements with a series of 9/11 service projects and powerful tributes to those who lost their lives on 9/11," said Miriam Stanicic, USNA community relations director. This next generation of leaders embrace a call to service that is so visceral that it inspires us all."

Community members, leadership and 114 midshipmen held a ceremony at the Maryland World War II Memorial before spending the morning cleaning up both the memorial and nearby Jonas Green Park.

"What 9/11 did to this nation still should be at the forefront of our minds," said Anne Arundel County Police Chief Timothy Altomare. "Preparedness, the readiness posture you folks are going to have to cover this country with, means something. You will be leaders to the greatest fighting force in the history of the world. You will protect this country and keep the wolf away from the door, and there will always be a wolf at the door."

Midshipmen planted trees, cleaned pathways and donated their time working hand-in-hand with the community beautifying the park's landscapes.

"I was only 2 years old when 9/11 happened," said Midshipman 4th Class Elizabeth Harvey. "That being said, I can see how it continues to play a part in so many people's lives. The least I can do is give some of my time towards helping our community, while it pays homage to those who sacrificed everything helping their community."

Additionally, MAG placed 2,977 miniature American flags along Stribling Walk on the USNA Yard. One for each life lost during the attacks.

Lt. John Breen of the New York City Fire Department was an honored guest and took part in the flag placement. Breen, then assigned to Engine 74, was in Manhattan searching for missing persons when the twin towers collapsed onto the building he was in.

"I don't want 9/11 to become a day that just comes and goes," said Breen, who is currently with the New York City Fire Department, Engine 229. "I want to share the story, and the impact that it has had on the families of the people who lost their lives during the attacks. Those men lost their lives trying to help others, it was very honorable and I don't want sight of the sacrifice they gave, to be lost over time."

Midshipmen also held a flag run on the Yard on Sept. 11. Running in small groups from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., the groups took part in carrying the American flag while running laps around the Academy. The day ended with a moment of silence during a gathering in Tecumseh Court at USNA.

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