NORFOLK, Va. — September 11, 2001, is a day many will never forget.
"While remembering the attack, it's critically important honoring America's response is the paramount task at hand," said Naval Station Norfolk Commanding Officer Captain Vince Baker.
Baker spoke at Naval Station Norfolk's annual 9/11 ceremony Friday morning. Service members read the timeline of events of September 11th.
Still, 20 years later, that day will always be etched in Baker's memory.
"When I think about 9/11 and we have a ceremony like this, it brings up all of those immediate, visceral responses when we first heard the news," he said.
Baker said he was training in Florida when he learned of the deadly attack. He said within minutes, he was reassigned to protect the coast in fear of another attack.
"We were there, ready to answer the nation's call," Baker said.
Petty Officer Blake Bush said this day called him to serve.
"It was heartbreaking and I just felt like I wanted to do something about it," Bush said.
He remembers how the nation united following the attacks.
"We can come together as one and we can serve others and we can put everything else aside," he said.
Laying a wreath, service members honored the thousands of lives lost and the hundreds who responded to help.
"This is an event that does remind them why it's important to serve with honor, courage, and commitment," Baker said.