Webster City remembers 9/11
Firefighters,students hold tributes Friday
Trending
On Friday, two commemorative exercises were held in Webster City to mark 25 years since
four airliners were commandeered on September 11, 2001 and flown into the World Trade
Center, Pentagon and another target which was thought to be the U.S. Capitol or White House.
Public officials, firefighters, and a few citizens gathered at the fire station for a brief commemorative service, while across town, every Webster City High School student placed a small American flag on the school grounds to mark the solemn occasion.
The actual number of people saved by the New York Police and Fire Departments on
September 11, 2001 isn't precisely known, but the bravery of these and other First
Responders that day have come to symbolize the nation's response to the attacks.
The NYPD knows exactly how many firefighters died on 911, 343. Ever since, fire departments
across the country rededicate themselves to their life-saving work each year in September.
At the fire house, military veteran and American Legion Post 191 member, Troy Duffy, led
attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance. Next, Joe Pierson, Pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church,
said a prayer for those who died on 911, those who've died from injuries or illnesses
related to 911, and the nation at large. Fire Chief Chuck Stansfield then recounted his
memories of the day using photos and video to emphasize his points. Finally, a series of
eight bells were rung, one for each attack, and a final one for those who died after the
attacks.
In a message to families of WCHS students, Principal Jason Wedgbury wrote,
"Today, students participated in a special activity to recognize and remember the events of September 11, 2001," Principal Jason Wedgbury wrote in a message to families of WCHS Students. The students began by watching a video reflecting on the significance of 911, then discussed what form courage and service might take in their own lives. Then, each student placed an American flag outside the school.
Wedgbury gave credit and thanks to Katie Sonsalla, Shelley Powers and Danika Klaver for "thoughtfully
developing and coordinating today's advisory activity."