A solemn salute in Newburgh
NEWBURGH – Residents joined first responders in Newburgh on September
11 to remember that date 15 years ago that changed the country forever.
Acting Fire Chief, Terry Ahlers said the department started the ceremony
in 2009 realizing that there was none in the city and that remembering
the almost 3,000 victims, including many from Orange County and the Mid-Hudson,
seemed to have lost significance to people in just eight years.
The names of all the local residents lost in the attacks were read, followed by a moment of silence, retiring of the colors, a trumpet dedication from atop the 9/11 memorial and a bagpipe dedication.
Newburgh Councilwoman Regina Angelo, who gave the blessing during the ceremony, said she usually involved in cheerful and happy occasions, but, September 11 is a solemn day for everyone.
Police Chief Daniel Cameron recalled the attacks and where he was on that day.
“It’s always a sad day and it doesn’t feel like it was 15 years ago,” said Cameron. “I remember that day, I remember working here in the City of Newburgh on a day shift when that was all happening and it seemed like it was just yesterday. That’s what we need to continue to do: remember it as if it was yesterday.”
Before the ceremony ended, firefighters were dispatched to an emergency call. Chief Ahlers said, “24-7, somebody’s always working. Emergency calls don’t come at convenience.”
