Never Forget Memorial Ceremony set for Sept. 11 in Washington Park

CHEBOYGAN — To commemorate the 21st anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the Bridge Area Retired Firefighters is holding a memorial service at noon on Sunday, Sept. 11 at Washington Park in Cheboygan.

Bob Haig, the assistant county veterans service officer, said they have the service to remember and honor those that lost their lives on 9/11, as well as to honor Cheboygan's Army Sgt. 1st Class Matthew D. Blaskowski, who lost his life in service.

“We get together on 9/11 to remember those who gave so much, but also to remember what our country is all about,” Haig said. “It's about all of us taking care of each other, particularly when it gets dangerous or tough.”

He said the service is short — only about 15 minutes — and will conclude with laying wreathes at the two memorial monuments, which are placed near the flag pole. The 9/11 memorial was originally erected in 2002.

They will read the Pledge of Allegiance, talk about the events of 9/11 and then lay the wreaths down.

“I know all first responders want to do their job. We know what those people went through when 9/11 occurred, they responded to an emergency, and they handled it the best way they could,” Haig said. “That's the heart and soul of all first responders in wanting to help and to be there for people. It’s the heart and spirit of this country.”

Haig said he encourages people to come out for the service in remembrance of 9/11.

“We appreciate anybody who comes down to join us, we’d be glad to see you there,” he said. “It’s a short ceremony, and it's good for your heart and spirit.”

This article originally appeared on Cheboygan Daily Tribune: Never Forget Memorial Ceremony set for Sept. 11 in Washington Park