The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) held an observance in the ship's forecastle on the anniversary of September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Truman's chief petty officer selects organized the observance, remembering the nearly 3,000 lives lost at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Flight 93. In attendance were Sailors from throughout the ship and Capt. Nicholas J. Dienna, Truman's commanding officer.

"It's time to stop and reflect on the events of that day," said Dienna. "We will honor, respect and grieve the loss we absorbed both that day and throughout the fight that's ensued over the past sixteen years, with many of our brothers and sisters making the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives in the service of their country."

Before setting underway, Truman received a National Ensign, from American Eagle Flag named the "Ground Zero Flag", that was raised in the rubble of the South Tower on Ground Zero shortly after the attacks to fly and display at the observance. The flag is passed to different U.S. military commands on the anniversary of the terrorist attacks each year and was flown from Truman's mast to add to its legacy.

"For all Americans, September 11, 2001, forever changed our world," said Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Michael Weis. "Like [how] the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor defined a generation, September 11th, indelibly shaped who we are, how we live our daily lives and what we believe in."

The events that took place 16 years ago have resulted in ongoing efforts by service members to defend the safety and freedom of billions around the world.

"What we are doing here is very important and very necessary," said Legalman 1st Class Kareshia Stallworth. "We can only continue to improve when we reflect on what happened, what has changed since and what we need to do going forward."

Truman is currently underway conducting Carrier Qualifications in preparation for future operations. For more information visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn75 or www.facebook.com/usstruman.

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/.