Orland Fire Protection District Commemorates 9/11
The Orland Fire Protection District held a commemoration
service Tuesday to honor the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks
that took the lives of nearly 3,000 Americans.
Among those killed on September 11 were 343 New York Fire
Fighters and paramedics, 23 members of the New York Police Department, and 37
members of the New York Port Authority.
Organized by OFPD Chief Ken Brucki, the event featured
Commander Edward P. Dunne and was held at Fire Station 1 adjacent to the Fire District
Headquarters at 9790 W. 151st Street.
“We assemble here today joining Americans across the country
to commemorate the 11th Anniversary of the terrorist attacks. We
will never forget the losses suffered on Sept. 11, 2001 at the World Trade
Center, the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania,” Dunne told a gathering
of firefighters and community residents.
“This ceremony is a salute to all the fallen firefighters,
law enforcement, military personnel and civilians alike. We give thanks to the
extraordinary response of the entire American Fire Service to the tragic events
that have changed all of our lives.”
During the ceremony, the American Flag was lowered to half
mast. Local 2754 provided the Honor Guard to ring the ceremonial bell, a total
of three rings done three times to symbolize the devotion that firefighters
share, and to remember those who have sacrificed their lines in the line of
duty.
(Photos courtesy Battalion Chief Dan Smith)
