POST FALLS - Jeanette Mackin knew the crew of United Airlines Flight 93 well.

So when the retired United flight attendant placed a wreath at the base of a flag pole on Sunday - the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks - she was honored to do so as a tribute to the crew members.

After terrorists took control of Flight 93, passengers and flight attendants made phone calls to learn that attacks had been made on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

"It's important for me to recognize that flight attendants alerted the government," Mackin said during the remembrance ceremony at the American Legion in Post Falls.

A terrorist had diverted the plane back toward Washington, D.C., presumably targeting the Capitol or White House before it crashed near Shanksville, Pa., killing all on board, after an attempt was made to regain control of the aircraft.

An estimated 125, including a strong contingent from the American Legion Riders that gone on a memorial ride earlier in the day, attended the Post Falls ceremony.

Multiple restaurants honored local emergency responders with free meals on Sunday, as well as leading up to 9/11. But the turnout at the event disappointed some speakers.

"This can't become just another day of the week or a holiday," Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Chief Ron Sampert said. "I hope the people who aren't here are at another (9/11) event. We can't forget. We need to get the message out for others to join us next year.

"But I want to tell you how much we appreciate you all for being here."

Post Falls Mayor Clay Larkin said Sept. 11 is not only a solemn day, but one that shows the nation's resolve.

"The red, white and blue has never run and neither will this nation," he said.

But he also senses waning patriotism.

"Why have we forgotten the sacrifices of the men, women and children?" he said. "Let's get back together, put our flags out and let everybody know what true patriotism is about."

Post Falls Police Chief Scot Haug said Sept. 11 changed emergency services forever.

"Local law enforcement, fire and EMS are working closer than ever before," he said. "Mutual aid is now what we do."

He said police's citizen partners have also helped in the fight against hate and crime.

"More than ever, we're asking citizens to work with us to be proactive," he said.

Speakers also recognized the efforts of all local soldiers who have fought for our freedom and continue to do so.

"We must continue to be vigilant and not become complacent," Haug said.

Also in Post Falls, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue's new training facility along Seltice Way was dedicated.