All photos by Bill O’Brien
The town of Branford once again has looked back to the events of Sept. 11, 2001 to acknowledge the bravery, courage and sacrifices made that day and the days after that have followed. Police Chief Kevin Halloran (left), Deputy Chief Jonathan Mulhern, and Assistant Fire Chief Shaun Heffernan gathered before the ceremony.
The most recent remembrance ceremony was on Tuesday morning at fire department headquarters. Fire Chief Thomas Mahoney welcomed those in attendance and introduced all those involved with the speaking program.
The program began at 8:30 a.m. A moment of silence was observed at 8:46 a.m. when the first tower was struck on that fateful day.
A good number of town officials and residents attended the remembrance service
The brief but emotional ceremony included members of the Branford Fire and Police departments along with several local residents who were living or working in New York at the time and were involved in that horrific day 17 years ago.
The program began with the presentation of Colors by members of the Police and Fire Departments escorted by the Stony Creek Fife and Drum Corps.
This was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by Police Chief Kevin Halloran.
The opening prayer and remarks were given by the Rev. Sharon Gracen Branford Fire Department Chaplain, as Selectman Jamie Cosgrove, Police Chief Kevin Halloran and Fire Chief Tom Mahoney stand behind her.
Selectman Jamie Cosgrove ask all in attendance to never forget 9/11.
Musical selections were performed by the Stony Creek Fife and Drum Corps and the Branford High School Music Makers under the direction of Michael Martone. The talented singers performed the National Anthem, “America the Beautiful,” and “Over the Rainbow” during the ceremonies.
Police officers salute during the National Anthem.
The Fireman’s Prayer was read by Deputy Chief Gary Bloomquist …
… and the Police Officer’s Prayer by Branford Officer John Campanelli, NYPD Police Officer, retired.
Assistant Chief Shaun Heffernan recited the memorable poem, “We Shall Never Forget” by Alan W. Jankowski.
Poignant remarks by Selectman Joe Higgins, followed by those of his wife Angie, about the impact 9/11 had on them even after 17 years. Joe, a retired Special Assistant Fire Commissioner was in one of the towers with a number of key fire leaders, and close friends that lost their lives.
Angie spoke of the number of firefighters, police officers, and other brave men and women, who without reservation gave their lives, in an attempt to save the lives of those trapped in the towers.
The program concluded with Deputy Chief Tim Judd ringing the traditional ‘Tolling of the Bell’ conducted at many memorial services such as the one in Branford.
He was followed by the Music Makers singing “Over the Rainbow,” and the Rev. Bill Keane, Branford Police Chaplain, who gave the closing prayer.