Volunteers clean headstones at Nashville National Cemetery in remembrance of 9/11

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)– Multiple events were held across Nashville to recognize the 23rd anniversary of 9/11.

At the Nashville National Cemetery, more than 30 volunteers from different organizations and backgrounds came together to clean headstones in honor and remembrance of veterans.

“It’s a really heartwarming feeling to see people come out here and give back and show that they actually care,” said Jeremiah Klatt, assistant director of the cemetery. Klatt served in the Army, a decision he said was motivated by the tragedy on September 11, 2001. 

“I was in the fifth grade when 9/11 happened and joined the military because of that; because I wanted to fight for something,” said Klatt. “With everything going on in the world, I think this positive moment, we’re not as bad as people think we are. Maybe it’ll kind of go in an upward trend where people will start helping each other more often.” 

“It really is an honor to give back to the families and veterans, be a part of that community for so long. I’m grateful for it,” said one volunteer, who is the wife of a veteran.

“This is my first time doing something like this. I didn’t know such type of things occurred. It just feels good to give back in any way that you can,” added another volunteer. 

There are roughly 30,000 headstones at the Nashville National Cemetery. Of course, volunteers did not get to all of them on Wednesday, but instead they spent several hours maintaining the section of Civil War veterans. 

The cemetery does volunteer cleanings a few times a year. On 9/11, it was an exercise packed with patriotism.

“Everyone is sacrificing something to make this world a better place, this country a better place, their community a better place,” said Klatt. “And I think that’s what makes us so great as well, being Americans, we’re willing to do more for others.”