9/12/13 - The Brighton Area Fire Authority is unwavering in not only tradition but its commitment to never forget the September 11th terrorist attacks or the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice that day - to lay down oneâs life to save another. The fire service is deep in tradition and one is the sounding of the bell - a symbol of honor, respect and the devotion the brave souls had for their duty. Despite some rain and a structure fire, firefighters and first responders from multiple departments, family, friends and community supporters attended the annual 9/11 ceremony held at the station headquarters on Grand River. The day was described as a time to remember those first responders presented with an unthinkable crisis that performed their duties in unimaginable surroundings, facing unfathomable odds. Fire Chief Mike OâBrian says cars were coming in and out of the station all day with people stopping to look or kneel at the departmentâs 9/11 memorial, which is a piece of steel from one of the towers. OâBrian tells WHMI it was a humbling day but also stressed how important it is for the younger generation to know what 9/11 is and how it affected everyone, including the fire service. A variety of speakers offered their thoughts, saying September 11th is a day to remember those who were doing nothing out of the ordinary but going about their typical day and gave so much. Those who worked tirelessly in the days, months and years after performing recovery efforts were also remembered. It was noted that 1,140 World Trade Center first responders who worked on those grounds have lost their lives since 2001 to cancer, also known as the 9/11 illness. (JM)
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