Team Scott stands united to remember Sept. 11, 2001 Published Sept. 11, 2025 By Senior Airman Violette Hosack 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- This morning, Scott Air Force Base hosted a Patriots Day 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93, which crashed in a Pennsylvania field on Sept. 11, 2001. Servicemembers, families, and community members gathered to reflect on the victims, including first responders and civilians, and to remember the courage and sacrifice shown in the face of tragedy. During the ceremony, Chief Master Sgt. Vernon Smith, 375th Mission Support Group senior enlisted leader, shared his memories of that day and reflected on the impact it had on him and many Americans. He spoke about the bravery of the men and women who sacrificed their lives, running toward danger without hesitation. “Many of us remember where we were that day,” said Smith. “I was a defender stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, responsible for providing nuclear security. I remember the images, the shock, the silence that fell across our country. But I also remember in the midst of fear, uncertainty, and devastation, there was courage. There was unity. There was resilience.” The observance also included the lowering of the American flag to half-staff, a moment of silence, and a wreath laying in honor of the victims. For the members of Team Scott, the annual Patriots Day Remembrance Ceremony serves as a tribute to the importance of service and sacrifice. It is a solemn reminder that the lives lost on 9/11 will always be remembered. Following the ceremony, a stair climb challenge was hosted by the 375th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department. Participants climbed a total of 110 stories to honor and remember the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice that day.