It was a somber and emotional morning at the fire hall on main street as Susanville residents en masse joined local firefighters, law enforcement and emergency medical personnel in paying tribute to those who lost their lives on September 11th, 2001.
Fire department Chaplain, Pastor Bruce Ingle, gave this simple and stirring prayer at the ceremony.
“Almighty God. We are here this morning to remember the tragic events that took place ten years ago today, September 11, 2001. A day that will forever be instilled in our memories. We looked on with horror as a few hours of time stood still for what seemed like an eternity, and we realized that our country was being attacked by terrorists. We all shed tears and common bond of grief to those lost, but we looked with honor on acts of courage by ordinary people who sacrificed themselves to prevent further death and destruction.”
“ Over the years you have turned our grief into determination, we are resolved to do what is good and right and just. Today we pray for the families of the 2,996 victims, from many nations, who lost their lives at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field near Shanksville, Pennyslvania, who are gathered together this morning at the places where their love ones perished, may they find comfort and strength and hope in your presence.”
“We pray for our men and women in the armed forces who are still fighting overseas for our freedom and to keep our country safe, and for the families of those brave heroes who lost their lives in places far from home fighting for this freedom.”
“ We give special thanks and pay honor today, to the 455 heroes; 342 New York City firefighters, 1 fire chaplain, 23 New York City police officers, 76 Port Authority police officers and personnel, 12 New York City paramedics and 1 FBI agent who ten years ago gave their lives pursuing the care and safety of others. Be with their families today as they reflect on the events of that dreadful day, comfort and strengthen them with the memories of their loved ones and of the great service they gave to our nation and world. May we never forget their sacrifice.”
“And for all Americans around the globe, that day ten years ago forever changed each and every one of us. We learned that evil is real, hate is destructive, buildings can collapse, security is an illusion, life is fragile and fear can be crippling. But in the midst of tragedy we learned that heroes still exist, courage does not waver, bravery knows no limit and there is strength in unity.”
“As the years pass we learn that loss is worth remembering, sacrifice worth honoring, freedom is worth defending, faith is our refuge, hope sustains us and loves endures all. Help us remember to remember what it means to be Americans, a people endowed with abundant blessings, help to cherish the freedoms we enjoy, inspire us to stand with courage, united as one nation in times of adversity. Lord hear this prayer for our nation and God bless us and God bless America. Amen. “
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