Seekonk Holds 9-11 Remembrance

Seekonk held its annual 9-11 remembrance ceremony outside Public Safety Headquarters on Thursday, September 11. Town and state officials spoke about the tragic day 13 years ago and paid tribute to the men and women who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks and those police officers, firefighters and rescue workers who died trying to save them.

The Seekonk Police Honor Guard opened the ceremony and third grade students from Martin and Aitken elementary schools led everyone in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Maura Dowd, wife of Seekonk police officer Sean Dowd, sang the National Anthem.

Town Clerk Jan Parker, who has coordinated the event every year since it began, said they had one of the biggest crowds that they have ever had.

The Seekonk High School brass ensemble under the direction of John Smialek performed a collection of patriotic songs and bagpiper Richard McDonough of the North Attleboro Fire Department played “Amazing Grace .“

Selectman Mike Brady said this was an important time in our history and like everyone else, he’ll never forget where he was and what he was doing on Sept. 11, 2001.

“It was such a disheartening time that 3,000 of our citizens and 400 of my brothers and sisters were in those towers when they collapsed. They were innocent people that went to work, did their job and died that day because evil came upon us,” said Brady.

State Representative Steve Howitt said it’s important that we remember what happened at 9-11.

“343 firefighters and 72 police officers lost their lives doing what they do - their jobs. Additionally many of our servicemen and women have lost their lives or have been injured protecting us against the threat of terrorism around the world since,” Howitt said.

“13 years ago we lost our innocence. To that end, we must remain vigilant and never forget that evil can spring up anywhere, at anytime, and thank the men and women who protect us and our freedoms every day,” Howitt said.

Senator Timilty said this is a “very important day.”

“What’s important is the enduring spirit, the heroism of our 343 firefighters and 72 police officers and others who through themselves into harm’s way to help others,” Timilty said.

“Also remember September 12, 2001 when everybody in the country came together as one. There were flags on cars, in yards. We remembered how great this country was. People stood in lines for hours to give blood. It’s important to realize the enduring spirit of America showed itself in that darkest hour, how we lifted ourselves up and came together,” Timilty said.

Other speakers included Selectman Gary Sagar and Veterans Agent Seth Bai.

Police Chief Craig Mace read the Policeman’s Prayer and newly appointed Fire Chief Michael Healy read the Firefighter’s Prayer.

Sandra Philips sang “God Bless America.”

Reverend John Amaral, chaplain for the police and fire departments, delivered the invocation and the benediction.