In photos: 9/11 ceremony at Augusta University

The city of Augusta and Augusta University held a ceremony Saturday at the Douglas Barnard Amphitheater commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Speakers at the Sept. 11 event included Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel, PhD, City Administrator Odie Donald II, Richmond County Deputy Marshal Scott Peebles and new Augusta Fire Chief Antonio Burden.

The event also featured Lora Huff singing the national anthem with the John Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School Jazz Band, which was led by James Brewer III. The band also performed America the Beautiful with Cara Givens. The Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, the Augusta Fire Department, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office and Augusta University ROTC Honor Guards presented the colors and a ceremonial bell rang at 8:46. All Richmond County public safety agencies participated, including fire, marshal’s and sheriff’s offices.

Also at 8:46 a.m., the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation Greater Augusta 5K Run/Walk began, and at 9:03, a trumpet player performed Taps. More than 300 people participated in the 5K, with all funds raised going toward building SMART homes for wounded warriors.

AU’s Military and Veteran Services also displayed an education exhibit for younger children to learn about the day.