(ST. JOSEPH, Mo) A 9/11 ceremony was held Satuday to remember the day that changed america forever.

"Its very important that we remember September the 11th." James Beesley, a speaker at the ceremony said. 

The local VFW 1668 hosted the event, allowing a chance to remember those who gave their lives for their country.

"We want to honor the heroes that have paid the ultimate sacrifice." Bill Puett, Buchanan County Sheriff said. 

Puett, delivered an emotional speech at the memorial, for him he remembers all of the first responders.

"Law enforcement, firefighters, military that tears at, I think my heartstrings as well as everybody else's." Puett added. 

Police officer Stephanie Riggins was only 6-years-old when the towers fell, still she remembers.

"It's just knowing those firemen, EMS and police officers actually went into the towers, and the pentagon, giving their lives for people that were inside, the selfless service." Riggins said. 

Beesley remembers where he was when the towers fell. 

"For me, my wife and I were both on duty with the army in Fort Bliss Texas, and saw the events unfold on the television." Beesley said, 
recalling how the day changed not only his life, but his entire family's.

"My wife and I served overseas, our oldest son served with me in Afghanistan." Beesley said. 

The ceremony wasn't just about remembering the past, it was also about the importance of unity in hopes for a brighter future.

"We need to remember that is takes all of us together, trusting each other and operating in unity to make this the great country that it has been and that it will be." Beesley said. 

All of Beesley's four sons have served.