Brewster Commemorates 9/11

BREWSTER – As it happens, there weren’t many firefighters at the town’s 25th anniversary remembrance of the Sept. 11 attacks Friday. But it wasn’t because the memory of that tragedy has faded — it was because most of the department was out responding to other emergencies.

Fire Chief Kevin Varley said crews were out on multiple simultaneous ambulance runs, including at least one that was serious in nature. And as it was on Sept. 11, 2001, it’s still all about answering the call.

“Today, we remember the nearly 3,000 innocent lives that were taken in a series of coordinated terrorist attacks, among them 343 firefighters, 60 police officers and eight paramedics,” Varley said. “Since this time, many more emergency response personnel have lost their lives to post-9/11 illnesses. These responders all ran towards danger to assist others with courage and selflessness.”

Gathered in front of the 9/11 memorial at the fire station, dozens of people listened as Capt. Chad Foakes tolled the somber last alarm, five bells rung four times, to honor the first responders lost in the attacks. Foakes then lowered the American flag to half staff. Jeff Mills of Bugles Across America played Taps before the assembly observed a heavy moment of silence.

“Twenty-five years have passed since Sept. 11, 2001, and it’s hard to believe that a third of the American public is too young to recall that day,” said Pastor Doug Scalese of the Brewster Baptist Church. “But we gather today knowing that some wounds don’t fade with time, and some names are never forgotten.” Scalese prayed for those who lost people they loved, who are still in need of comfort, strength and the assurance that their loved ones are remembered.

“Bless the firefighters and other first responders who are here today. Watch over them as they enter burning buildings, respond to emergencies, and place themselves between danger and those who need help. Give them wisdom in moments of uncertainty, courage in moments of fear, and strength when the burden is heavy,” Scalese said. “We thank you for those who don’t sit on the sidelines, but show up on someone’s worst day and try to make it a little better.”

Remembering Sept. 11 is also a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there are helpers willing to serve, he said.

Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Sivert read the poem “We Shall Never Forget” by Alan Jankowski before another solemn tolling of the fire bell closed the ceremony.