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Belvidere Fire Department’s Tribute to 9/11
By Chief Al Hyser
ANNE EICKSTADT PHOTO Belvidere Republican
The Belvidere Fire Dept. raises a flag that has flown over Ground Zero in a tribute to the fallen of 9-11.
Belvidere Fire Dept.
Speech made on Sept. 11, 2019, to firefighters, Mayor Mike, Shauna Arco, and other Belvidere residents:
“On the 18th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks, we pause to remember the events of that tragic day, as well as honor the victims and the heroism of first responders,” said Captain Al Hyser of the Belvidere Fire Dept.
“At 8:45 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2001, American Airlines Flight 11 collided into the World Trade Center’s north tower in New York City, immediately killing hundreds of people and trapping hundreds more in the 110-story skyscraper.
“Only 18 minutes later, United Airlines Flight 175 flew into the south tower. Both towers afire, burning debris covered the surrounding buildings and the streets below while hundreds jumped from the towers to their deaths in an attempt to escape.
“About 30 minutes later, a third plane, American Airlines Flight 77, crashed in the west side of the Pentagon near Washington D.C. and a fourth plane, United Flight 93, crash-landed into a field in Pennsylvania killing all 40 souls on board.
“Meanwhile, both Trade Center towers collapsed into a terrifying and deadly inferno of rubble.
“At the hands of 19 militant terrorists associated with the Islamic extremist group al-Qaeda headed by Osama bin Laden, more than 3000 people (including more than 400 firefighters and police officers) were murdered and more than 10,000 others were wounded during the attacks on 9/11. It was the deadliest terrorist act in U.S. history and the most devastating foreign attack on American soil since the attack on Pearl Harbor.
“On Sept. 11, 2001, sitting President George W. Bush addressed the nation with a formal statement. ‘Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve.’
“In the past, we spoke of revenge, on this day, now, Sept. 11 is known as Patriot Day in the United States and is observed as the National Day of Service and Remembrance of the victims of the 9/11 attacks. Across the country, numerous events are held on this day to honor the loss of thousands of lives. There are also…
For complete article, pick up the Sept. 19 Belvidere Republican.
