Brockport F.D. 9/11 Vigil Steeped in Tradition

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By Monument Chairman Christopher R. Martin
Brockport Fire Department

The Brockport Volunteer Fire Department located in a small village on the banks of the Erie Canal west of Rochester, N.Y., drew record-breaking crowds for its annual vigil on September 11, 2011. Individuals came from near and far to pay their respects to the many heroes that left us 10 years ago.

The annual vigil consists of three ceremonies to allow for everyone in the community the opportunity to attend at least one. Each year at the opening ceremony, the grand 6-foot-by-10-foot American flag is lowered to half-staff. At 8:47, the next tradition that has set in over time takes place. The fire department rings the memorial bell in true FDNY fashion. The bell tolls 5-5-5-5, as it always has when a firefighter is killed in the line of duty in New York City. Throughout the day, people visited the memorial. Some dropped flowers, while others stopped to offer a prayer. People shared a thank you with their community volunteers. The vigil also included a mid-day ceremony at noon and dignified closing ceremony at 7:30 p.m.

May each of the fallen rest in peace and the sacrifices they made never be forgotten. May the monument that was created in their honor and memory stand tall and host many more vigils in the years to come.