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Geauga pays respect on 9/11 anniversary
(by Joseph Koziol Jr. - September 14, 2011)
Geauga pays respect on 9/11 anniversary
By JOSEPH KOZIOL JR.
Geauga County came together Sunday to remember those who lost their lives 10 years ago in the terrorist attacks on New York City, the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pa.
More than 100 people gathered on Chardon Square to pay their respects to the nearly 3,000 who died Sept. 1, 2001, to hear testimonies of the fateful day and to honor those who continue to serve our country.
"Today, as we commemorate the events of 10 years ago, we continue to mourn the loss of nearly 3,000 Americans who perished on that fateful day," Geauga County Commissioner Tracy Jemison said. "We also pay tribute to those first responders, who on one of America's darkest days light our path of hope that we would persevere."
Chaplain Harry Richardson, with the Geauga County Sheriff's Office, recalled his thoughts that day as he watched a commercial jet fly low through the skies over Geauga County.
"I thought it strange that the jet was flying so low," Rev. Richardson said.
It was only moments later that a teary-eyed co-worker would inform him of the horror that was unfolding that day.
Quoting from Scripture, Rev. Richardson condemned those who perpetrated the "evil plot," citing the promise that those who "live by the sword, die by the sword."
He called on the crowd to never forget the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice that day and to pray such terror will never again touch America's shores.
But, despite the losses felt that day, he promised hope through God. "Nothing will be able to separate us from God's love," he said.
Geauga County Commissioner Mary Samide called on the Geauga County gathering to hold each life precious as they continue to lead their lives.
She described how many who died in the Twin Towers may have felt as they began their day and what they might have felt as their realized the horror that closed in around them. She also described the frustration some may have felt in being unable to reach loved ones to make their final goodbyes.
"Recounting what might have happened in those final moments of the World Trade Center, the victims may never give us peace or closure," she said. "But, today, when you say goodbye, remember it may be your last time. Make it a good one."
Mr. Jemison spoke of two Geauga County Sheriff deputies that responded to New York following the attacks. Lt. Tom "Mac" McCaffrey, his dog Brutus, and Deputy Andy Mominey left Sept. 16 to offer their help, he said.
Mr. McCaffrey kept a journal of his time there, noting that he was not a hero, just there to do his job.
"Once they arrived in New York City, they saw many signs and people yelling, 'Thank you for coming,'" Mr. Jemison said. "Mac writes that while this was very emotional he felt guilty that they were thanking him as they had not done anything yet. He was hoping at that time to be able to do a job that would be worthy of this praise as the New York police officers and firemen were."
Mr. Jemison called on Geauga countians to thank those who continue to serve in dire times.
"In Geauga County, we are blessed with the fine men and women who protect and serve us every day as a sheriff's deputy, policeman or fireman," he said. "We thank each and every one of you for being our shining light when our path is at its darkest. May God bless you and America."
The event was marked by inspirational songs sung by "Spirit Bound," a quartet which performed the national anthem, "America the Beautiful" and "God Bless America." Solemn music on bagpipes was performed by Jack Pierce and Joseph Keough.
The Burton American Legion Post 459 concluded the ceremonies with a 21-gun salute.
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