Seekonk Holds 9-11 Ceremony

Seekonk held its annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 10 in the public safety building. Rainy weather moved the ceremony indoors. Several town and state officials spoke and about 100 people were in attendance to honor the men and women who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

Seekonk is one of only two area towns that continues to hold a 9/11 memorial ceremony. The ceremony opened with the Seekonk Police Honor Guard and students from Martin and Aitken elementary schools reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Seekonk High School Brass Ensemble performed a selection of patriotic music. Selectmen Dave Parker introduced all the speakers. He reminded everyone of how many people died on Sept. 11 – nearly 3,000 people at the World Trade Center, on the hijacked airplanes and at the Pentagon. In addition, 343 firefighters and 72 police officers lost their lives helping others. “Don’t ever forget those numbers,” Parker said.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime thanked all the police officers and firefighters for taking part in the memorial and for their continued service. “As we look at our public safety individuals who serve this community and ensure our safety, we owe them a debt of gratitude,” Cadime said. Selectmen David Viera, who served as Fire Chief for 13 years, also praised the town’s public safety departments. “The folks that we have before you today are second to none – the police, fire, public safety, dispatchers …they are here for you,” Viera said. State Rep. Steve Howitt talked about how that day changed everyone’s lives. “The world has changed since then. Nothing is the same … You have to remain vigilant. Fortunately, we have the protection of these fine individuals…” Howitt said. Police Chief Craig Mace said he believes it is important to remember those who lost their lives on Sept. 11 and to celebrate the efforts of the people who protect us every day. “We know, as seen on Sept. 11, 2001 and April 14, 2013, that police officers will join firefighters and military personnel by going into perilous situations to assist citizens in need of help,” Mace said. “We should always remember the sacrifices that have been made and continue to be made,” Mace said.