Muskogee Freedom Walk Held In Remembrance Of 9/11 Victims

Lacie Lowry, News On 6

MUSKOGEE, Oklahoma -- Muskogee is remembering the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks with a Freedom Walk.

Organizers said Saturday morning's walk is a time of reflection for the nearly 3,000 lives lost that September morning.

The September 11th attacks and the ten years since have reminded us that freedom is not free.

"Lives taken, what someone would have on their mind to do something like that, to injure someone and take a person's life," said Muskogee resident Benjamin Sourie, when asked to tell his memories of 9/11.

For the last four years, the city has sponsored a Freedom Walk down Centennial Trail, a quiet path perfect for pondering. 

5/2/2011 Related Story: Friends Of Muskogee Soldier Killed On 9-11 React To Bin Laden's Death

"You get out on the trail, and you see that beauty of nature, and I think that's inspirational in itself," said Jonita Mullins of Downtown Muskogee Inc.

The Freedom Walk is part of a national tradition, created in 2005 by Pentagon employees to pay tribute to the heroes of 9/11 and support the armed forces.

"We should be tremendously glad that we have them fighting for our freedom. Our freedom is not cheap," said Pat McWilliams, a Muskogee resident.

The walk also helps heal a very personal wound. Muskogee lost a son in the attacks.

U.S. Army Major Ron Milam died when one of the hijacked jetliners crashed into the Pentagon.

"It really hit home. It wasn't just something far off in Washington or New York. It was a part of Muskogee as well," Mullins said.

Oklahomans from all walks of life take the two-mile trek and resolve to never forget.

"I think the best way to remember them and honor them is to teach our children to value what we have here in America, to never take it for granted and to look for ways of serving," said Jonita Mullins of Downtown Muskogee Inc.

Family members of Major Ron Milam were invited to today's event. They said they wanted to come, but they would be attending a special ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Participants were also asked to bring care packages for the troops.

Remembering 9/11