Each year on September 11th, the Fire Chief's Association of Palm Beach County, Florida presents a tribute to those that lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and to honor those that risked their lives on that fateful day. The ceremony this year was in my town and I was so touched by the day's events. Every Fire Department and Police Department throughout Palm Beach County was represented. Each unit had fire trucks parked along the main road in. A parade was held ending at our Ampitheatre where a beautiful ceremony was held. Here are some photo's to capture the day.
A plaque on the front of one of the trucks reads, "Look Busy Until We Get There"
The Flyover
A Flag That Was In The World Trade Center, Framed
Our Town's Memorial - steel from between the 69th and 71st floors of Tower 2 and the Fountain with an Eternal Flame. There is also a wall with the names of each person that perished etched in glass.
It was a typically hot, hot, hot Florida day, yet the Firefighters from throughout the County were gathered together to honor their own. They stood in the blazing hot sun, in full uniform, never showing any discomfort. As we were standing behind a group of Firefighters, I noticed that every 15 minutes or so, the person in the front of the line who was standing in the direct sun, would move to the back of the line where there was shade so each had a turn in the sun. Amazing.
After the ceremony was over, we were speaking with one of the Firefighters crediting him for withstanding the heat in full uniform. He commented that they were well hydrated, that they train for "conditions" like this and with a twinkle in his eye said, "even if we were dying, we'd never let you know it"! Not everyone could fill those shoes. Thank God for those that do!
An amazing day. The emotions are overflowing. I remember what I was doing ten years ago today. We all do. It was the day life changed forever.
5 comments:
What a lovely tribute indeed. I have the utmost respect for the firefighters, police and EMS workers who protect us all. I spent the morning watching a tv special about that terrible day, crying throughout the entire program. I too remember where I was on that fateful moment, I will never forget it.
I didn't see you there! George marched in the parade and Michael and I stood with him during most of the ceremony. I loved the helicopter flyby the best.
Joyce~
What an amazing thing the county did for our brave heroes!!
Stop by my blog when you feel better~
xoxo
Hi Joyce,
Thanks so much for the nice comment you left on my blog. I wanted to stop by and "meet" you. Lovely blog and some great artsy projects. I'm excited that you want to join in my 12 Tags of Christmas challenge. I'm having so much fun making them and hope that you will enjoy it too.
Wonderful post on the 9/11 tribute too!
Blessings,
Linda
This is truly a beautiful tribute. My son was a fire fighter so this has special meaning for me.
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