Annual 9/11 prayer vigil stokes patriotic flames
You might think that after 23 years of holding the annual 9-11 Tribute to the victims of the that horrible tragedy and the bravery of first responders at the scene on that September morning, that a little of the emotional spark would be lost along the way.
However, the candle-lit ceremony, hosted by the 21st Ward Veterans Association each year, still elicits the same deep-rooted passion and emotional fervor that was present in the air during that first year.
The phrase "Never Forget" still rang true with an equivalent gut-wrenching response for those in attendance that permeated our being back in 2001.
It's likely that the emotional wounds of that horrific day may never completely heal.
The annual candlelit vigil still holds a special place in the hearts of our community as witness to the large gathering that comes out each September to pay their respects to the 9-11 victims.
As much as the focus on those who lost their lives on that fateful day remains crystal clear, just as much sentiment is reserved for not only the first responders who bravely entered a lion's den back then, but equally to honor those who serve and protect us in the present tense.
The speakers who shared their perspective on how those attacks altered our perception of the world of the vulnerability that we once felt shielded from, the passage of time also allows us to continually restore our resolve to not only protect ourselves from the nefarious forces that still exist in 2024, but to also commit ourselves toward a renewal of hope for the future.
After a stirring invocation by Rev. Jack Kennedy, 21st Ward Veterans Association President and ceremony emcee Bruce Hoffman shared his thoughts on how the events of 9-11 "shook the foundation of country and forever changed our nation."
He cautioned about the new political challenges that threaten our country's unity and the need to embrace things that bring us together.
State Rep. Tarik Khan, in addition to playing a rousing rendition of "Taps" later in the program, commented as to how our nation "came together stronger to triumph over evil."
Khan, who supports all legislation in Harrisburg that benefits our first responders, added that "nothing will defeat us."
Retired Colonel and Deacon Jim Browne, who is a mainstay at community events that commemorate the sacrifices by soldiers and those defending our freedoms, always adds a unique perspective to ponder.
He mentioned that the 9-11 generation has risen to the challenges of our time to create a renewed resolve of faith despite vast political and religious discrepancies that might otherwise divide us.
Two guest speakers added a "you are there" first-hand account of their comings and goings while in NYC during the 9-11 attack and their personal reactions to the unfolding events in real time.
Both Chaplain Michael Foster and the Salvation Army's Rev. Glen Snyder saw with their own eyes, not only the unimaginable destruction that brought havoc to the island of Manhattan, but also selfless acts of kindness and generosity that occurred spontaneously in the wake of human tragedy showing our true collective spirit.
During the ceremony, attendees were handed lit candles by members of our local scout troop that were a symbolic expression of the spiritual connection that many felt as they paid homage to the lives lost in the line of duty.
I think it goes without saying that the presence of the Roxborough Male Chorus belting out galvanizing selections from America's songbook, while touching the hearts and souls of those in attendance, puts this community's ceremony in a class by itself.
Songs like My Country 'Tis of Thee and God Bless America really pull on everyone's heartstrings and stir emotions that are profoundly felt.
The patriotic tunes strike a balance between the somberness of the occasion and the optimism about the inter-connectiveness of all Americans.
Bruce Hoffman had the honors in presenting two awards on behalf of the 21st Ward Veterans.
The first was "Officer of the Year" which was awarded to Officer Rashaan Cooper, a 31-year police veteran, whose on-job compassion, bravery, and dedication have enhanced our community's safety and sense of well-being.
The other award to the members of Engine 30, Ladder 39, and Medic 05 for their continued and unwavering success in protecting our community.
Firefighter Feliciano Santiago graciously accepted the plaque on their behalf.
What better way to end the evening than chowing down on the scrumptious offerings, courtesy of those fine folks at Mission BBQ, Plymouth Meeting. Mission BBQ has been popping up at just about every community event hosted by the 21st Ward Veterans since 2019 to feed the masses with a delectable array of picnic style fixings.
Topping off a memorable night were the upbeat musical stylings of the Memorial Hospital-based band, the Providers, whose spot-on covers of rock and soul music from several decades was the perfect elixir to send everyone home in a happy mood.
