Town officials, emergency organizations and residents of Halfmoon gathered in front of the Town Hall Gazebo Monday, Sept. 11, to pay their respects and honor the courage of so many Americans in the face of the terrorist attacks on the United States five years ago.
It was another beautiful ceremony, said town Supervisor Kenneth DeCerce. `I am very proud to be a part of this, I’m proud of the emergency ser-vice willing to be here each time, and I am proud of the resi-dents for paying respects.`
With the flag at half-staff, fire chief Art Huntsinger spoke of the 343 firefighters, EMTs and paramedics who sacrificed their lives that morning for the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens.
Cheryl Glick of the Clifton Park/Halfmoon Emergency Corps said the memorial service was not just about remembering a tragedy that left thousands of Americans dead in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania, but also about honoring the everyday courage that defined the day.
`The 343 firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics are, of course, to be commended for their heroism,` said Glick, `but let us not forget the countless efforts of America’s civilians. Whether you donated blood for the victims, continue to support our troops through fundraisers, and even attend memorial services such as this, your deeds do not go unnoticed.`
A brief moment of silence was observed to honor those who had lost their lives in the tragedy, and also allow people a chance to reflect on where they were, how they felt, and the prayers they’d said during those catastrophic moments.
`I was at home that morning,` recalled councilman James Bold. `We had a contractor here doing excavation work around our barn foundation. Things were quite hectic here and so we kept checking the TV while keeping the excavation project moving. The impact on me is probably similar to many other folks in becoming aware of the reality of terrorism and how devastating and cruel it can be.`
Memorial spectators watched the U.S. flag repositioned at half-staff with silent gratitude. Shenendehowa Rotary president Stacie Peugh said, `Every day, the YMCA follows its motto to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. And most certainly the tragic event that took place five years ago on Sept. 11 ended the lives of many and affected many families and communities as well. We at the Y reflect on this day and remember in our hearts those who lost their lives, and send our heartfelt thoughts and well wishes to their families and friends. We also reflect at this time and send our well wishes to our troops overseas that are protecting our country from further terrorist attacks, and we ask God to bless each of them and their families.“