John Martin, left, the town’s Veterans Services officer, takes part in the flag ceremony in frontof the fire station during observances marking the 25 th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. — John Martin, left, the town’s Veterans Services officer, takes part in flag ceremony in front of fire station during observances marking the 25 th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. (Photos by Maureen L. Sullivan)

With somberness and dignity, Natick joined the rest of the nation in observing the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

(Watch Natick Pegasus recording of the event.)

Dozens gathered at the 9/11 memorial in front of the police station, including members of the town’s police and fire departments, the Soldier Systems Center and town officials.

Speakers reflected on 9/11 not only as a day of tragedy, but a day of resolve and unity.

“It’s a day that began an incredible moment of American spirit,” said state Rep. David Linsky. “We respected each other, we helped our neighbors.”

Brigadier General George Hackler, the systems center’s senior commander, said the terrorists who struck in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania “failed to understand the strength of the American people.”

Ashley Alberini, a member of the town’s fire department, was in high school when the attacks took place. She joined the Army at the age of 17, and served in Iraq from 2007 to 2008. She has been with the department for the past 13 years.

“It changed the trajectory of my life,” said Alberini. “It’s the reason I work here.”

In addition to speeches, there was a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. (the time of the first attack on the World Trade Center); the ringing of the fire bell at 3-3-3 (signifying a major loss); and renditions of the national anthem and “America the Beautiful.” At the end of the ceremony,
attendees were handed flowers – donated by TJX, who lost seven employees in the attack – to place at the memorial.