HAYDEN — Through tragedy rose a more united nation.

Patriot Day ceremonies were held in Hayden and Coeur d'Alene on Sunday on the 15th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks that killed 2,966 people and injured more than 6,000 others.

Under sunny skies that resembled the day 15 years ago, Hayden Mayor Steve Griffitts told about 60 people at the Pfc. Robert J. Gordon Veterans Memorial Plaza outside City Hall that he tries to remember the "marvelous miracles" that occurred around the time of the four attacks to cope with the tragedies.

"It's OK to be uncomfortable remembering the events of 15 years ago," Griffitts said. "Amid chaos, good people did great things."

Griffitts said lives were saved, heroes rose and the country became more prepared and aware about terrorism.

"(The tragic day) united us in ways that very few other events have," he said. "It was a reminder of how good we can be. There's wonderful feelings that come from patriotism."

The Coeur d'Alene police and fire departments held a similar remembrance ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Plaza at Cherry Hill Park.

Coeur d'Alene resident Lance Benson said he wanted to attend the morning ceremony in Hayden because the attacks also occurred during the morning hours, but he also took his family to the Coeur d'Alene event in the afternoon since that's when they were available.

"It's a time to not only reflect on the lives that were lost, but where we are at as a nation," he said. "We may feel safer, but are we really? With the recent events of terrorism from within, it makes you think about things."

At the Hayden ceremony, Hayden resident John Dixon paused to remember that tragic day 15 years ago.

"It's a sad day, remembering everyone who was lost," he said. "I feel so sorry for those involved, and I hope our great country can get back on track."

There were 343 firefighter and 72 law enforcement deaths during the attacks.

"It changed the world as we know it," Kootenai County Sheriff Ben Wolfinger said.

Wolfinger said Patriot Day in Idaho may feel different to some law enforcement personnel here than in other states because the community is constantly expressing its appreciation to emergency responders.

"We are blessed to live here," he said. "You show us appreciation every day. Responders never get tired of hearing the same thing."

Northern Lakes Fire District Chief Pat Riley said when he traveled to New York with other responders two years ago and after he became a lieutenant, he made a commitment to himself to not let the events of Sept. 11, 2001, shake him.

"We are honored to serve you," Riley said.