Harford Church remembers 9-11
Published: September 16, 2009
Font size: [A] [A] [A]
e-mail this
share this
Bagpiper Jim Sweeney PHOTO COURTESY RUTH ANNE GALLINGER
Pastor William Hagenbuch and the members of the Harford Congregational United Church of Christ honored the county's firefighters and emergency medical service personnel during a Sunday morning service Sept. 13.
The service coincided with the eighth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States and recalled the brave acts by emergency responders and ordinary citizens during the horrific period following the attacks.
Taking part in the service were Charlene Moser, Ann Marie Graf, Lisa Hahn and bagpiper Jim Sweeney.
Along with honored guests from the New Milford Hose Company, Great Bend Fire Company, Harford Ambulance, Harford Fire Company and Thompson Hose Company, U.S. Rep. Chris Carney, Sen. Lisa Baker and Rep. Sandra Major were recognized for their participation in this special service.
Hagenbuch and music coordinator Robert Fisher selected music that was both appropriate and moving, starting with, "Holy, Holy, Holy," and included the anthems, "If I Can Help Somebody”, "Here I Am Lord" and postlude, "Amazing Grace" by Sweeney on the bagpipe.
The fire companies and EMS personnel present received legislative citations, and helping with the presentations was Jean Bonham.
Major told those attending there were none more worthy than those attending the service. She said they do what they need to do and expect nothing in return and very seldom get the recognition they should receive for what they do.
"I sincerely extend my thanks for what each and everyone does for your community," Major said.
Baker thanked the pastor for taking the time to recognize the emergency personnel.
"You are known to many of us as 'our insurance policy' and it is our day to say thank-you," Baker said. She also recognized the families who give the volunteers the support so they may give to others.
Congressman Carney has worked as an EMT and said he understands what the volunteers do.
“I thank God every day we have you here,” Carney said. “You go to work and never know what you will find, a stranger or someone you know. God Bless you for your courage and dedication.”
