Never forget

 

Evert year on September 11, Goochland Fire-Rescue sponsors events commemorating the terrorist attacks on American soil that forever changed the world.

A morning service geared to the sacrifices made by those in public safety—law enforcement, firefighters, Emergency Medical responders, animal protection—was held at Courthouse Company 5, in the shadow of Old Glory deployed from its ladder truck.

In the evening, a more general observance took place at Manakin Company 1, home to Goochland’s 911 memorial, which contains steel from the Twin Towers in New York. It included a presentation about the Freedom Flag (https://www.freedomflagfoundation.org/) that honors all who died at Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

During the morning session, the names of all NYFD firefighters, EMS personnel, and law enforcement officers who were killed on that horrific day were read to make sure they are never forgotten.  Some of the readers had not yet been born on 911. Vignettes about heroes who died helping others, their dedication to service, and how they ran toward danger were shared. Names of those who perished during the past year from 911 related illnesses that continue to kill, were also read.

Following fire service tradition, a bell was rung to honor the fallen.

National media was filled with stories about the fallen and images of their still grieving families. We must never forget any of the people who were killed during the 911 attacks and make sure that the millions of young people who have been born in the last 25 years know their stories.

Those who choose public safety careers are unique individuals. They train hard to learn how to run toward emergencies, bring order out of chaos, and give aid to those impacted with grace. They never know what their next shift will bring and shrug “what if?” to the back of their minds. Their families send them off, proud of their accomplishments and dedication to service, with prayers for their safe return.

The morning event concluded with the placement by members of Goochland American Legion Post 215 of a memorial wreath at the base of the Company 5 flagpole to honor the heroes of 911 near the marker honoring Michael “Tink” Sims, the was the only Goochland Fire-Rescue volunteer to die in the line of service.

Angels walk among us. They travel in Sheriff’s cars, ambulances, and fire trucks. They give us their best on our worst days and deserve our prayers for their safety.