Tomorrow marks 14 years since the deadly attacks on American soil, but what arose has bonded our nation as we once again prepare for the National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Some 40 million Americans will participate in community outreach or public service to honor the memories of those who perished on Sept. 11. Performing good deeds and assisting our neighbors keeps alive the spirit of unity that permeated our nation in the aftermath of 9/11.

In 2009, Congress designated Sept. 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance under bipartisan federal law, and tasked the Corporation for National and Community Service with helping support this effort across the country. This effort first established the inspiring tradition of engaging in charitable service on 9/11 as an annual and forward-looking tribute to the 9/11 victims, survivors and those who rose up in service in response to the attacks.

Former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour signed a proclamation on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, designating Sept. 11 as a voluntary Day of Service and Remembrance. Barbour issued a call to all Mississippians to perform charitable service. Mississippians have continued to respond to this call with statewide service projects and ceremonies that honor local police, firemen, veterans and military personnel.

“The Mississippi Volunteer Center Network, universities, nonprofits and communities are coming together to develop some exciting and exceptional service projects to honor the men and women who serve us at home and abroad,” said Krista Estes, Volunteer Network Office for Volunteer Mississippi. “The energy and enthusiasm for the 9/11 Day of Service grows each year, and we encourage Mississippians of all ages and in all areas to find a way to support this great effort.”

Locally there are events planned and we encourage residents to find a way to honor and recognize through volunteerism. And given the opportunity, tell those first responders and officers in uniform how much they are truly appreciated.

Oxford’s Day of Remembrance Ceremony is at 9:30 a.m. Friday at the Oxford Activity Center.

Giving back and paying tribute is the best way we as Mississippians can recognize the sacrifice of those who perished on that day, as well as honoring the men and women in uniform who continue to protect us daily from another such attack.