Beaufort Patriot Day ceremony opens and closes with prayers, honors 9/11 victims

The Beaufort Patriot Day ceremony opened with a prayer from Father Eric Roman and closed with a prayer from Pastor Theresa, framing the event as a time for communal remembrance of the Sept. 11 attacks and for support of those who serve. Organizers thanked local civic groups, school ROTC units and elected officials for participating in the 25th‑anniversary observance.

Father Eric Roman opened the program with a prayer asking for healing for victims, first responders and grieving families, saying in part, "We begin in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit." The closing prayer invoked protection and strength for those serving the country and asked for wisdom and courage for Americans who carry out public service.

The ceremony interspersed prayers with awards to local first responders (firefighter, EMS and law enforcement recognitions) and a keynote address by State Representative Shannon Erickson. Organizers and speakers repeatedly asked the community to honor the memory of those lost by renewing commitments to service and unity.