Features Editor

A patriotic memorial service is being planned for the first anniversary of the terrorists’ attacks on the United States.

All across the nation, in cities and villages, people will gather on Sept. 11 to remember those who lost their lives in the attacks. They will also gather to show that Americans are strong and this country will persevere.

"We want Pike County to be a part of that nationwide show of remembrance and strength," said Shelia Jackson, public relations director for the city of Troy. "The city of Troy, the Downtown Revitalization Committee, Troy State University and the Junior American Red Cross have pooled their resources to host a huge patriotic memorial service."

The service is planned for 6:30 Sept. 11 on the square in downtown Troy.

"Although the program will be in downtown Troy, it is for the entire county, the entire area," Jackson said. "It is for anyone who wants to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and their loved ones in the terrorists’ attacks and for everyone who loves America."

The Troy State University Collegiate Singers, under the direction of Paul McGahie, will provide 15 minutes of patriotic music prior to the beginning of the memorial service.

McGahie said selections will include, "America the Beautiful," "God Bless America," "A Salute to the Armed Forces" and the "National Anthem."

"We will include several songs that were written especially for the 9-11 disaster," McGahie said. "There will also be selections where the audience will be invited to sing along with us. Everyone will be familiar with the music and it will be a big part of the program."

The featured speaker for the program will be Dennis Smith, a veteran of military service.

"Rep. Alan Boothe and Sen.Wendell Mitchell have made funds available to us so that we can buy American flags

to hang on the lamp posts in the downtown area," Jackson said. "The downtown area will be decorated in red, white and blue and it will make a beautiful setting for our Patriotic Memorial 9-11 Service."

Jackson said the program is in the early planning stage, but it is not too early for all Pike Countians to begin making plans to be a part of this special service.’