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(Portland, Oregon) This year marks the 20th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people at the World Trade Center site, Shanksville, Pa. and at the Pentagon.
The Portland Firefighters Association and Portland Fire & Rescue will honor the fallen heroes with a small ceremony. The event will be live streamed for the public due to COVID restrictions for large groups.
Media is invited to attend at 10 am on Saturday September 11, at 10 am (Station 1, 55 SW Ash Street). Staging will be available at 9:30 am. Social distancing and masks are required. Please use street parking.
“Our members believe it’s our duty and honor every year to pay tribute to the men and women who lost their lives twenty years ago trying to save others,” said Alan Ferschweiler, president of the Portland Firefighters Association. “Although our ceremony is virtual again this year, we have guest speakers who will share their stories of being at ground zero that horrible day and how it has forever made an impact on their lives,” said Ferschweiler.
Portland Firefighters who flew to New York immediately after the terrorist attack and a retired New York City Police officer will share their stories of assisting in the recovery efforts. A total of four Portland Firefighters flew to New York City to help a fellow firefighter at ground zero.
“That horrific day 20 years ago brought firefighters, emergency workers, law enforcement and fellow citizens together to help one another and stand united in the midst of chaos,” said Chief Sara Boone of Portland Fire & Rescue. “Today we come together to honor and recognize those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001,” said Boone.
“On this 20th anniversary of 9/11, we remember all the innocent lives lost and honor the bravery of firefighters and all first responders who are willing to risk everything at a moment’s notice in service to our communities.” Says Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty.
So far, 110 firefighters have died due to 9/11 related illnesses due to the World Trade Center terror attacks, and 343 firefighters died on September 11, 2001.
“We will never forget those men and women who lost their lives that day, or those who have died and are suffering from illnesses related to their grueling recovery efforts,” said Ferschweiler.
The David Campbell fire boat will close out the special ceremony, along with the Portland Firefighters Pipes & Drums. The 1927 historical fire boat was retired earlier this year and the 9/11 ceremony will be its last Bureau sponsored public event.
The public can watch the livestream event on “Portland Fire Fighters’ Association, IAFF Local 43” Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/iaff43/live_videos/
Media that will not be there in person are invited to a Zoom webinar.
When: Sep 11, 2021 10:00 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Topic: Portland Firefighters 9/11 Remembrance
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88382667801
*Interesting history on the fireboat David Campbell; https://youtu.be/hGOFRZr9fo4