East Longmeadow to have traditional, solemn ceremony to honor victims of 9/11

Date: 9/6/2011

Sept. 5, 2011

By Chris Maza

Reminder Assistant Editor

EAST LONGMEADOW — The annual memorial service commemorating those who died as a result of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, will once again be hosted by the East Longmeadow Fire Department.

The candlelight vigil honoring the police, fire and emergency medical personnel, as well as civilians who died in the attacks will take place on Sept. 11 at 8 p.m. on the front lawn of the fire department.

Fire Chief Richard Brady told Reminder Publications the ceremony will remain as simple and solemn as it was the first time.

“No, not at all,” Brady said when asked if there were any additions to the program. “The reason for that is simply that this is not a celebration. It is a solemn reminder of those who were lost.”

Brady did acknowledge that the vigil, which usually draws somewhere between 200 and 300 people, may be larger this year because of the 10-year milestone.

Brady added that several local and state officials, including Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray, would be on hand to share their thoughts and prayers. A bagpiper, as well as East Longmeadow resident and Dan Kane singer Lauran Beluzo will provide the music.

Those planning on attending are asked to bring their own candles, which will be lit at the end of the service. Those in attendance may stay as long as they feel the need.

“This is an emotional time,” Brady said. “People can stay as long as they want.”

After the vigil, the public may also gather in the fire station for light refreshments, which are being provided by the Exchange Club.