“We chose unity”: Speakers at Warrensburg 9/11 Memorial Service recall a nation joined in purpose

“As we commemorate the awful events of 22 years ago, of course we say, ‘Never forget,” but what does that mean to each of us?” New York State Senator Dan Stec posed this question at the Warrensburg Volunteer Fire Company’s 9/11 Memorial Service held Monday evening at the town bandstand. “The current context that we’re living in, the divisiveness, our politics … Whatever our differences are, there are people on this planet that don’t like any of us and wish us harm,” says Stec. “They don’t care who’s in the White House, what party is in charge, which way our country is going with our own internal stuff. They don’t like our way of life. They don’t like what we stand for, they don’t like the direction that we’re going, they don’t like what we represent. So that’s something I think we all need to never forget.”

The Warrensburg Fire Department has held a 9/11 memorial service in the center of town each year since the 2001 terrorist attacks. Multiple Fire departments participate, and the 2023 service saw Elm Street in Warrensburg lined with fire trucks from Bolton, Thurman, Queensbury, Horicon, Luzerne-Hadley, Johnsburg and North Creek. The Chestertown Fire Department arrived just as the ceremony was about to begin having come directly from responding to an accident on the Northway. Large American flags flew from Lake George and Potterville tower trucks. First responders in dress uniform stood in rows along the center green, and people lined the street holding American flags and flickering candles to honor and remember those lost.

Warrensburg Town Supervisor and WFD President Kevin Geraghty served as Master of Ceremonies and American Legion Post 446 and VFW Post 4821 led the Pledge of Allegiance. Firefighter Logan McKinney gave an impassioned rendering of the “Star-Spangled Banner.” The service included videos projected against a large screen that showed clips of the 9/11 attacks and the response of the U.S. Military and first responders.

New York State Assemblyman Matt Simpson spoke about the impact 9/11 on the nation:

“22 years have passed since the world watched in horror as the events of 911 unfolded. For many of us, it feels like just yesterday while for others, it’s just a distant memory, but the impact of that day remains etched in our hearts and in the very fabric of our nation. On that fateful morning, the world witnessed acts of unprecedented bravery, resilience and selflessness. Firefighters, police officers, emergency responders and ordinary citizens rushed into danger to help their fellow Americans. They exemplify the true spirit of heroism, risking their lives to save others. Many made the ultimate sacrifice. Today we remember the 343 firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty on 9/11. They are part of a brotherhood and sisterhood that extends far beyond the firehouse doors. Driven by an unwavering commitment to help those in need, they answered the call knowing the risk. Their sacrifice is a reminder of the profound bravery that defines our profession.”

Simpson continued with the theme of unity saying, “The events of 911 changed our nation in unimaginable ways, but they also revealed our strength and resilience. In the face of terror, our country united.  We showed the world we would not be divided by hatred, fear or violence. Instead, we chose unity, compassion and the unwavering pursuit of justice. “

Past WFC Chief James Hull explained the significance of the Striking of the Four Fives, the ringing of a fire bell in four series of five notes to honor firefighters who died in the line of duty. Before a hushed crowd, Hull performed the ringing of the bell ceremony. The Galloway Gaelic Pipe & Drums followed with Amazing Grace. WFC line officers laid a wreath and Warrensburg Jr./Sr. High School Band Director Denise Foster played “Taps.”

Current WFC Chief Jason Hull gave concluding remarks thanking everyone who participated in this year’s Warrensburg 9/11 Memorial. “To us, to these people that protect your community, it’s [attending the 9/11 Memorial] a big deal, and it’s a big deal to all of you because that’s why you’re here.” In closing, Hull said, “I hope everybody comes back next year. As we said, we will never forget. We will always be here.”

The service ended with the Warrensburg High School band playing “God Bless America.” The Lake George Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary provided refreshments.

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