By Daishan Roach Contributing writer Over the weekend, Eatonville citizens took time to serve and beautify their community as part of the 9-11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. About 175 individuals came to support the event Saturday. Each person registered for one of the 13 work assignments and then took part in the opening flag ceremony. After all were welcomed, an opening prayer was given and the flag was presented and raised by the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of Pack/Troop 604, led by Malachi Nyhuis and Jonah Hietpas. The "Star-Spangled Banner" was proudly played on trombone by Kevin David and Hunter Carroll while the flag rose up the pole and the sun shined brightly on the audience. A moment of silence was observed. This was followed by a brief, heartspoken message by veteran Tim McGuire, who said, "What a great way to show our gratitude and respect for those who sacrifice for our country's freedom and protection, than to dedicate a day of service to them." Everyone was then dismissed to meet up and receive instruction from the team leader of each work crew. Citizens, individuals and families of all ages went to work in many areas of the town. There were many projects that involved weeding, cleaning up, beautifying, spreading bark, widening trails and picking up litter throughout our community parks, cemetery, community garden, school grounds and town entrances. Everyone involved seemed happy to do it. And there were two groups walking or driving through neighborhoods, offering service in exchange for food or clothing donations. When projects were completed, all volunteers were greeted by a group of people who also worked hard to provide a lunch and gathering place for everyone to enjoy and talk about the service that had just been rendered. The Methodist Church offered its kitchen and basement area for this purpose. A spaghetti lunch was served. This was the fourth annual 9-11 National Day of Service and Remembrance observed in Eatonville, and organizers say it will continue to be a tradition as long as the people of Eatonville take part in honoring the men and women who serve our country. Organizers said a great amount of gratitude and thanks go to all who planned, executed, and participated in the event Saturday. Today is the 12th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. on Sept. 10, 2011.
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