A couple of local organizations have events planned on Friday to commemorate the eighth anniversary of 9/11.

Arthur Frederiksen, director of American Legion Post 164 on Depot Road in Falmouth, has organized a commemoration that includes members of the Falmouth fire-rescue and police departments. After a wreath is placed, state Rep. Jerry Davis, R-Falmouth, will speak, followed by Police Chief Edward Tolan and Fire and Rescue Chief Howard Rice. Frederiksen will also speak. The event will incorporate 51 flags, each representing 10 of the troops killed in Iraq, Frederiksen said.

The events will take place at noon on the playground behind the Legion Hall.

“This is a very important day; many people take it for granted,” Frederiksen said. “Giving police, fire and rescue a ‘thank you’ for all the time they put in for the people in the town and a warning not to let your guard down because it could happen again.”

In Freeport, the Freeport Flag Ladies – JoAnn Miller, Elaine Greene and Carmen Footer – have organized their annual 9/11 tribute, which will take place at the corner of Main and School streets. Running from 7:30-9:30 a.m., the event is held “to honor the lives that were lost on 9/11 and support the men and women who serve our country in the military and first responders,” Miller said.

There will be an open parade that will mingle with the traffic. Cars and motorcycles will be specially decorated and carry flags as they drive along with the regular traffic. Miller said they’ve heard people from all over the state plan to attend.

At exactly 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane hit the World Trade Center in New York City, there will be a moment of silence. A bugle and fife corps will also play “Amazing Grace” and the street will be blocked off by the Freeport Fire Department. Miller said they will take a lot of pictures that will be sent to the military in Iraq and Afghanistan to show them the support of people back home.

“It’s not just a somber event; it’s a chance to re-experience the American spirit and how that rose again after the 9/11 event,” Miller said. “We’re hoping people will join us and their spirits and energy to what’s going on.”

Peggy Roberts can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 125 or proberts@theforecaster.net.