Mountain Brook joins Homewood and Vestavia Hills for Patriot Day Ceremony

This morning, the communities of Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Homewood gathered together for a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony and Patriot's Day Celebration at the Vestavia City Center.

The ceremony began with the Vestavia Hills High School Choir singing the "Star Spangled Banner." Mayor Butch Zaragoza gave the welcome address and Dr. Dennis Anderson of Vestavia Hills Baptist Church gave the invocation.

Vestavia Hills Police Department Chief Dan Rary introduced the keynote speaker Colonel Andrew W. Love. Love spoke of his personal involvement with first response after 9/11 and also his involvement with the response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Love lived in a tent in an airport parking lot for several weeks, an experience he said had a powerful impact on his life.

Love encouraged the audience to show their love for their country and honor those who have sacrificed by performing every day acts and gestures. He encouraged everyone to show respect for the flag, to vote, to volunteer, to help neighbors and get involved in the community.

"On this solemn anniversary, we pause in remembrance. My challenge to you is that we must teach and mentor the next generation," Love said. "Freedom isn't free. We can never forget."