9/11 Reminds Residents That Unity Is Possible: County Officials

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Prince George's County officials remembered the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks Friday morning.

County Executive Angela Alsobrooks called the 9/11 attacks a "heinous act of terrorism." She encouraged residents to come together and remember their common identity.

"Today, we honor the lives of those who were lost, and the heroic efforts of civilians, first responders and law enforcement who worked tirelessly and put their lives on the line to save others," Alsobrooks said on Twitter. "As we reflect on this day, let us remember that, as Americans, there is so much more that unites us than divides us."

Of the 3,000 people who died, 343 were firefighters, 80 were police officers and 8 were medics. A total of 68 Marylanders died in the attacks.

The Prince George's County Fire Department posted a video, saying its members would never forget.

The Prince George's County Police Athletic League also encouraged Americans to search for unity in polarized times.

Gov. Larry Hogan and Lieutenant Gov. Boyd Rutherford also paid their respects at the Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Memorial. The duo laid wreaths and encouraged Marylanders to reflect on the day.

"I ask Marylanders to once again join us in praying for the victims of 9/11, for their families, and for the heroic first responders who didn’t hesitate to answer the call," Hogan said.

Have a story idea? Please contact me at jacob.baumgart@patch.com with any pitches, tips or questions. Follow me on Twitter @JacobBaumgart and on Facebook @JacobBaumgartJournalist to stay up-to-date with the latest Anne Arundel County and Prince George's County news.