On the 10-year anniversary of the devastating Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Americans around the country will mourn those lost to the day’s violence and the warfare that wages on in the Middle East.

It was a day that tested the nation’s strength and continues to impact lives a decade later. There are many ways to reflect and show patriotism, but perhaps the best way is to bond with strangers and fellow Americans.

The Oracle previews some of the events happening in the Tampa Bay area that will bring together those who wish to pay homage and respects to the fallen.

USF Remembrance Ceremony When: Friday, 11 a.m.

Where: Marshall Student Center Oval Theater

Stay on campus for your 9/11 reflection by checking out a USF event that features former U.S. Rep. Jim Davis, as well as USF President Judy Genshaft and student body President Matt Diaz.

The ceremony is hosted by the Division of Student Affairs and Student Government (SG). It will feature speeches from Davis and Genshaft, as well as a video produced by SG.

Hillsborough County Communitywide 9/11 Remembrance event When: Friday, noon

Where: Joe Chillura Courthouse Square

This ceremony, taking place on the corner of Kennedy Boulevard and Pierce Street, features Gov. Rick Scott and Adm. Bill H. McRaven, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command.

Aside from the governor’s speech, the event will also include a U.S. Air Force fly-over and a patriotic musical performance by children from Rampellow Downtown Partnership School.

A World Trade Center beam will also be placed at the ceremony for the laying of wreaths and flowers in commemoration of the fallen. There will be free parking in the Pierce Street Garage.

American Veterans 9/11 Motorcycle Ride When: Saturday, noon Where: Begins at James A. Haley VA Hospital

The American Veterans (AMVETS) Post 44 hosts its fourth annual 9/11 Remembrance Ride and Patriot Day Celebration to pay tribute to lives lost in the attacks and the war on terror.

The AMVETS have raised more than $15,000 toward support of the VA Hospital’s Recreational Therapy Service and veterans throughout the community. Attend the event and see live entertainment, food and other family-friendly festivities. Tickets are $15 for the public and free for first responders and military members in uniform.

Tampa Bay 9/11 Patriot Day 2011 When: Sunday, 8 a.m. Where: Channelside

From 8 to 8:45 a.m., head to Channelside Drive in downtown Tampa to remember 9/11 with local members of the Tampa Police Department, Fire Department and military. Attendees will board the WWII American Victory Ship Mariners Museum for a memorial hosted by Channel 10’s Reginald Roundtree, who reported on the attacks in 2001.

After that, head to the Tampa Firefighters Museum for the unveiling of a mural honoring those who died at ground zero hosted by Mayor Bob Buckhorn. Food and entertainment follow the presentation.

Tampa 9/11 10th Anniversary Mega Charity Poker Run When: Sunday, all day

Where: Harley-Davidson, Tampa, Brandon, New Port Richey

Motorcycle enthusiasts and non-bikers alike are welcome to remember 9/11 at an event that supports the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and the Michael Lynch Memorial Foundation.

Both charities provide aid for the families of Sept. 11 victims, as well as scholarships for children of victims. Registration is $10 a person and includes the opportunity to win thousands of dollars in prizes.

The bike run starts at 10 a.m. and stops at Tampa Bay Downs, Harley-Davidson of Tampa and Channelside Bay Plaza. After a 1:30 p.m. remembrance ceremony at Harley-Davidson of Tampa, an after party hosted by local radio personalities and featuring live music caps off the event.

Project Packages with Beta Alpha Psi

When: Sept. 12–16

Where: Business Administration Building breezeway

The accounting honors organization will be collecting items and letters to put into care packages for troops deployed overseas. Beta Alpha Psi will have tables set up around the Business Administration Building where students can donate anything from food to words of encouragement for U.S. soldiers.

Project Packages is a local not-for-profit organization founded by the sister of a fallen soldier. Donations to the organization will go toward funding the delivery of these care packages, which go to all war zones, according to projectpackages.org.