Posted 9/19/01 They came to reaffirm the tenets of democracy By T.W. Budig ECM capitol reporter Five thousand Minnesotans crowded the Capitol mall on Sunday (Sept. 16), coming together to mourn the victims of last weeks terrorist attacks. But they came also to reaffirm the tenets of democracy. Firetrucks lined the Capitol thoroughfare, flag-topped extension ladders pointed skyward. A flock of white pigeons ñ symbols of peace ñ circled the damp, umbrella sheltered crowd to be replaced later by the throttled might of a formation of fighters from 148th Fighter Wing of the Air Nation Guard, one fighter jet veering off from the group, executing the ìMissing Manî maneuver. Likewise, a flight of helicopters from the Guard performed the low-level salute. On the Capitol steps, congressional, state, and local leaders with members of Minnesotaís faith community spoke and prayed. Five wreaths were laid on the Capitol steps honoring the members of the armed services, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and firefighters, and citizens lost in the attack.. It was the three latter groups that took heavy losses in the World Trade Center attack. St. Paul Police Officers wore mourning bands on their badges. The wreaths remain on the Capitol steps. During the memorial, titled ìMinnesota Remembers, A Memorial from the Heartlandî. religious leaders from many faiths prayed together in religious unity. Dr. Hamdy El-Swaf, executive director of the Islamic Center of Minnesota, said the Islamic community condemned Tuesdayís terrorist attacks. ìThey must be brought to justice,î he said of the terrorist. A entire community should not be held accountable for the actions of few, he said. Erik Aamoth, the brother of Gordon Aamoth, a Minnesotan who lost his life in the World Trade Center bombing, said while the New York City firefighters and police were heroes, the victims of terrorism ñ his brother ñ were also heroes. They exhibited heroism in leading the lives they led. Gov. Jesse Ventura, in his closing remarks, said while he was proud being governor, he was more proud of his role as Commander-in-Chief of the Minnesota National Guard. ìHooya,î he closed, giving a Navy SEAL cry. Music was provided by the University of Minnesota Marching Band, Metropolitan Boys Choir, and the group, Sounds of Blackness. ©Post Review