In this Army file photo from 2018, firefighters in gear participate in a walk at Chievres Air Base to commemorate those who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks. The garrison is scheduled to host a multi-faceted event this year as well at Chievres Air Base and Brussels Site in Belgium and Brunssum Site in the Netherlands. (U.S. Army photo)

CHIÈVRES, Belgium – U.S. Army Garrison Benelux is honoring the lives lost Sept. 11, 2001 through a multi-faceted remembrance event being held simultaneously at Chièvres Air Base and the Brussels Site in Belgium and at the Brunssum Site in the Netherlands from 8:45 a.m. to noon Sept. 11.

During the commemorative event, titled “WE REMEMBER,” members of the communities will gather, observe a moment of silence, participate in a remembrance ceremony and then walk or run either three or five kilometers out of respect for the fallen heroes.

In Chièvres, in addition to speakers and a performance by the SHAPE International Band, there will be a Wall of Remembrance. At the base of this wall is a space for event participants to leave a note, a flower, a flag or any other token of remembrance which pays respect to those who lost their lives during the attack on America.

The garrison encourages members of the community to drop off unwanted shoes or boots at collection boxes near the food court at the Chièvres Post Exchange and at the Outdoor Recreation office near the Carrefour at SHAPE. These shoes and boots will be used in the WE REMEMBER ceremony at the Chièvres community to represent the loss of those civilians and first responders no longer with us.

At the conclusion of the remembrance event, participants will move to the starting line of the 2020 Patriot Run. This year there are three- and five-kilometer options. This is neither a race nor a timed event, and participants should run or walk at their own pace. Special T-shirts have been created for those who complete this year’s run / walk.

Due to COVID-19, there are some important points to remember. Everyone attending the event MUST REGISTER ONLINE. Facial coverings must be worn at the remembrance event and during the time before and after the run. Hand-washing and sanitizing stations have been provided for the community’s safety. At all times, physical distancing rules must be observed with no exception.

You can register at the event by sending your name, age, community and what parts of the event you would like to participate in to BeneluxRemembers911@gmail.com.

USAG Benelux Public Affairs