ATHOL – The Athol Fire Department held a September 11th Remembrance Ceremony on Wednesday at the Athol Fire Station to honor those who sacrificed their lives for others as the national tragedy unfolded. Athol Fire Chief Joseph P. Guarnera and Athol Police Chief Craig Lundgren welcomed about 50 people, including members of the police and fire departments, residents, and town officials. Police Sgt. Jarret Mousseau led the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the first verse of “America” sung by Mitchell Grosky.
Chief Guarnera gave an overview of the the events that took place on Sept. 11, 2001. Fire department chaplain Dan Parsons offered a 9/11 Remembrance Prayer recognizing those who have been called to a life of sacrifice. “We have seen, heard stories and perhaps experienced for ourselves the selfless acts of heroism by our fire, police, EMS, military and second responders of that day. Sacrifice that knows no race, that knows no gender, but is motivated by perfect love for each other. At its very base it’s people watching out and caring for each other.”
The Firefighter’s Prayer was read by Deputy Fire Chief Jeffrey Parker. Chief Lundgren read the Policeman’s Prayer. The flag was lowered to half-mast and the bell was rung in honor of fallen firefighters and police. “Amazing Grace” was played on bagpipes by call firefighter Todd Bowdridge.
Chief Guarnera said it was an honor to have the police and fire departments together as they both “lost brothers in the attack.”