In 2011, North Myrtle Beach Public Safety personnel felt the
need to show respect to those who had given the ultimate sacrifice when the
United States came under attack on September 11, 2001.
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| (Photo is from a previous 9/11 NMB Public Safety Dept Beach Walk.) |
On that 10th
anniversary of 9/11, in an effort to memorialize all who perished, were injured
and were otherwise involved in the events of that tragic day, department
personnel elected to walk the entire 9 mile stretch of beach within the city of
North Myrtle Beach, dressed from head to toe in the same gear and equipment as
their brothers and sisters used on the day they lost their lives.
At first, they walked quietly and solemnly, not knowing if
their task was even possible to complete. They soon realized that walking 9
miles in the hot sun on the beach would be an arduous task, and the need for
conversation was a must. They began to discuss among themselves the events that
had taken place that day and their memories of it, and they shared with each
other the stories of those they had lost.
Lost in conversation as they walked the beach that day, they
did not realize that as they marched that beach-goers had begun to salute the
flags they carried, placing their hands on their hearts as the public safety
personnel passed by. People also began walking with them for short
distances, thanking them, and shaking their hands. The marchers then realized
that what they had set out to do for themselves also provided those around them
with an opportunity to show respect as well.
With the overwhelming support they received that day, Public
Safety personnel knew they could not stop until they had reached their
destination. Mentally and physically, they supported each other through their
journey. And, with a few stops along the way, drenched in sweat, aching from
head to toe, they finally achieved their goal.
Each year since, the walk has continued to provide an outlet
for Public Safety employees, residents, and visitors to remember the victims of
the attacks on 9/11. The walk honors the countless first responders and
military personnel who responded that day, and those who continue to protect
the nation.
Now joined by multiple agencies, branches of the military,
and family members, the walk has grown beyond what its founders had imagined.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the
tragic events of 9/11/2001 and the 5th year of the Beach Walk.
The public is invited to join with North Myrtle Beach Public
Safety personnel as they again walk the entire beach on 9/11 in remembrance of
their brothers and sisters.
WALK
INFORMATION
Start: 9:00 a.m. at 48th Avenue South on the beach.
Conclusion: About 63rd Avenue North on the beach.
For additional
information, please contact Fire Engineer Ryan Marrs at rmmarrs@nmb.us or (843) 385-0195.
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