In Memory They Serve

For many people who do not live in New York City, the impact of 9-11 (September 11, 2001) is lost, especially for those who did not lose anyone as a result of the attack. But for the men and women of the New York Fire Department, they are reminded of the event on not just a daily but an hourly basis.

The profession of firefighting is a thankless and often dangerous job that unites its members into a family where any loss is profoundly felt.

This past week the firefighters of New York held their annual conference in Niagara Falls. Outside of the conference center were a variety of vehicles; among them was a fire truck...a truck in memory. Along the ladder were two photos - the raising of the flag and the burning towers - and the words "Never Forget" and the date of Sept. 11, 2001. Emblazened along the sides of the truck were the names of all the firefighters who died on that fateful day.

Upon seeing that big red ladder truck the impact becomes clear and gut wrenching - a rolling memorial to the cost of hatred.