0912_Rally

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Rally Looks Back on Lessons of 9/11

Pensacola News Journal - September 12, 2011

American Flags waved high, chests stuck out proudly and hands clapped as "God Bless America" was sung by the choir and the audience.

American pride flooded the Milton High School stadium on Sunday at 3 p.m.

About 1,500 people showed up to the Santa Rosa County God and Country Rally held by leaders of the community of Milton to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.

The rally was designed to kick-start a resurgence of Christian faith in the hearts of the community of Milton and the American people.

The Rev. William B. Wright, pastor of Bible Way Baptist Church in Milton, welcomed everyone to the rally and introduced the guest speakers to the audience.

Guest speakers included state Sen. Greg Evers, R-Baker, state Rep. Doug Broxson, R-Gulf Breeze, and people who witnessed the attack firsthand.

Among the witnesses to the 9/11 attacks were Melissa Scarborough, Navy Capt. Peter Hall and U.S. Marshal Dominic Guadagnoli.

Evers spoke of the pride he has for America and the community.

"This tragic event brought us together as Americans," he said. "Fear cannot topple the American spirit."

Scarborough told her story of how she was on the 61st floor of the south tower when the attack happened. She spoke of her life since and how that has strengthened her faith.

"It's not my words. It's not my message. It's not about me," she said. "God showed up bigger every time. He still does ten years later."

Hall was in the Pentagon when it was struck by the plane. He explained his support for the rally.

"We are gathered here to remember and to pray," he said.

The Santa Rosa County Firefighters Association, the City of Milton and Santa Rosa County, along with Wright and other community leaders and organizations, coordinated and volunteered for the event.

Wright spoke of how he felt America has let political correctness get in the way of being an American.

"I am an American, and I am a Christian," he said. "I will not apologize for either."