A 9/11 commemoration ceremony was held at the Fort Hamilton army base Friday.

Retired firefighter Robert Reeg served as the guest speaker for the annual event. He responded to the World Trade Center 16 years ago and was struck by falling debris.

Reeg was left with a punctured lung and other severe injuries, but lived to tell the tale.

"The best thing we can do is stay united," Reeg said. "The spirit that came across America after that was the silver lining behind the dark cloud."

The flag at Fort Hamilton will remain at half-staff until sunset on Sept. 11.