MERRIMACK — Praying for peace and remembrance, a small crowd gathered on Tuesday to honor and give thanks to the many lives that were lost when America was attacked exactly 11 years ago.

The nation has risen from the devastation, creating a stronger country that is full of patriotism and reflection on the anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, said Roland Roberge, commander of the Merrimack American Legion Post 98.

“America does not give in to fear,” said Roberge, noting the brave firefighters who rushed into burning buildings and the heroic passengers who charged a cockpit taken over by terrorists.

The sacrifices of these patriots should never be forgotten — not today and not ever, Roberge told those in attendance.

“We can never get back the innocence we lost,” he said, explaining that although much has changed, there is still much that remains the same. It is the character of the American people and their faith in God that has remained strong, persevering through the unthinkable, said Roberge.

Before a moment of silence, Chaplain Skitch Henderson of the Merrimack American Legion urged those gathered to remember — in their own personal way — the events that unfolded that tragic day more than a decade ago.

Those of us who survived will forever remember the Twin Towers as we age, even as time separates us from the vivid memories of the terrorist attacks on our nation, said Henderson.

Nearly 3,000 people died on Sept. 11, 2001, leaving children and babies who were too young to understand the ramifications of life without a parent.

“I am sure this day touches everybody in one way or another. So many lives were lost,” said Jeanne Dunphy, a member of the American Legion Riders of Merrimack.

Another legion rider, Tony Coelho, said he vowed to never forget the innocent people and emergency responders who were killed on Sept. 11.

“This is a way to pay my respects to everyone who died on 9-11,” said Coelho.

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Kimberly Houghton may be reached at khoughton@newstote.com.