Orland Fire District Honors Sept. 11 Terror Victims

The Orland Fire Protection District held a commemoration service Tuesday to
honor the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks that took the
lives of nearly 3,000 Americans.

Among those killed were 343 New York firefighters and paramedics, 23 members of the New York Police Department, and 37 members of the New York Port Authority.

Organized by OFPD Chief Ken Brucki, the event featured Commander Edward P.
Dunne and was held at Fire Station 1 adjacent to the Fire District
Headquarters at 9790 W. 151st St.

"We assemble here today joining Americans across the country to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the terrorist attacks," Dunne told a gathering of firefighters and community residents. "We will never forget the
losses suffered on Sept. 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon
and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

"This ceremony is a salute to all the fallen firefighters, law enforcement,
military personnel and civilians alike. We give thanks to the extraordinary
response of the entire American Fire Service to the tragic events that have
changed all of our lives."

During the ceremony, the American flag was lowered to half staff.

Local 2754 provided the Honor Guard to ring the ceremonial bell, a total of three rings done three times to symbolize the devotion that firefighters share, and to remember those who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.