Utica honors those who died on 9/11
By
LEXIE O'CONNOR
Story Created:
Sep 10, 2011 at 7:02 PM EDT
Story Updated:
Sep 11, 2011 at 7:40 PM EDT
UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - Utica's day long series of services and service began early at the Parkway September 11th Memorial on Sunday. Moments of silence, punctuated by bells ringing marked the lives lost.
"If we don't remember, history tends to repeat itself, I feel it's a very appropriate way to start the day, start the day with a very solemn prayer and quiet gathering," says Utica Fire Chief Russell Brooks.
After the day's first service, volunteers gathered at the Parkway Recreation Center to take part in the National Day of Service, making care packages for veterans and community food banks.
"Giving service helps us remember and helps us do good for our communities," says Kelly Walters, Executive Director of Parkway Senior Center.
Hands busy working, but thoughts on lives lost.
"I just felt, I could be closer in just helping them," says volunteer Dawnelle Fields.
After the tradition of reading the names of first responders who died that day, the days events ended with a closing ceremony.
Visiting members form New York City's Fire Department beside Utica's, to thank them for joining them after the attacks.
"Well we all consider each other brothers and sisters, whether you're from one agency or the other, there's no difference," says Oren Brazilay, a New York Fire Department Medical Technician.
"It reminds me of the agonies of that day, but it also rekindles in me the sense of unity, respect that we have for each other. In order to cooperate and work together to reach the common goals," says FDNY Lieutenant John Carreiro.
