By Alberto Suris
The events of September 11, 2001 were remembered throughout the country. Lawrence was one of the cities that paid tribute to the victims of the tragedy that shocked the nation and the entire world.
On September 11, 2019, from the early hours, the public began to congregate at the Engine 4 Barracks, located at 71 South Broadway, where tribute was paid to the victims of the terrorist attack against the financial world, given that in the New York’s twin towers there were offices from over 500 companies of 28 countries.
Lieutenant James Flynn, who served as MC, opened the event with these moving words:
“September 11, on this day 18 years ago…
246 People went to sleep in preparation for their morning flights.
2,606 People went to sleep in preparation for work the next morning.
343 Firefighters went to sleep in preparation for their morning shift.
60 police officers went to sleep in preparation for their morning patrol.
8 Paramedics went to sleep in preparation for a shift of saving lives.
None of these brave souls saw past 10:00 AM the next day, September 11, 2001.
In one single moment, life may never be the same. As you go about and live and enjoy every breath you take today, tonight before you go to sleep, in preparation for your day and life tomorrow kiss the ones you love, snuggle them a little tighter, and never for one second take any moment of live for granted.”
Then, Lieutenant Cory Scott rang three groups of five bells in honor of all those who lost their lives on September 11 and were never found.
Among the speakers who addressed the public were Father Paul O’Brien, Captain Eric Zahn, Fire Chief Brian Moriarty, Lawrence Mayor Daniel Rivera and Retired Captain Leo Boutin.
