Members of Alexandria’s American Legion Post 24 gathered in Old Town Sept. 11 to commemorate the 9-11 attacks of 2001.

Standing beneath an American flag at half-mast outside Post 24, commander and Vietnam veteran Doug Gurka led the ceremony, which included remarks from several veterans recounting their first-hand experiences on that day.

“Our nation was under attack that day,” said retired Air Force Col. Mike Mixon, who was on temporary assignment to the Pentagon at the time. “Without knowing any details, my boss thought she had sent me to my death. In the wake of the attacks, I was able to work closely with then Secretary of Transportation Norm Mineta and watch our nation — military and civilian — come together in a way that was unprecedented.”

The ceremony was highlighted by the singing of the third verse of the National Anthem, chosen specifically for its lyrics, and concluded with the playing of “Amazing Grace.”