Local police, fire and emergency service departments joined MATC faculty, staff and students at the Oak Creek Campus on 9/11 to honor the 72 police officers, 343 firefighters and eight EMTs and paramedics who died in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade center and Pentagon 23 years ago. Yard signs with the names of all 423 deceased first responders were placed at the campus.
Almost 3,000 people died in the attacks on the United States buildings and in a plane crash in Shanksville, PA. More than 6,000 others were injured in the attacks.
Milwaukee Fire Department Cadet Apry’a Outlaw was born three years after the tragedy and stood at attention. She spoke words of gratitude, inspiration and courage at the 9/11 commencement event.
“I am so very grateful for those who have served before me,” said Outlaw who is in her second year of service. “This inspires me. It gives me the courage to do what needs to be done because I have seen the sacrifices people who came before me have made,” she said.
Milwaukee Cocalist William Tony sang ¨The National Anthem¨ as red, white and blue placards bearing the names of the firefighters, police officers and emergency personnel who died in the attacks rested during the ceremony. A bagpiper from the Milwaukee Pipes and Drums played “Amazing Grace” as a fire engine as the American flag from an extended ladder and a video clip paid tribute to those who gave their lives. The fire engine is used by MATC for training purposes.
Associate Dean of MATC’s Community and Health Services Pathway, Janell Jones spoke about standing united to honor the countless acts of bravery and kindness. She said, “This is a celebration of resilience. Hopefully, this will serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of strength within all of us.”
U.S. Navy Chaplain Dr. Andrew Cahoun spoke about his experience of the tragic day at a naval base in Little Creek, Virginia. “Helicopters were in the sky, sirens were going off, tanks were rolling,” he recalled. “We were ready.” As chaplain, he was tasked with providing emotional and psychological support to first responders who rushed into the havoc, without regard for their personal safety.
“The call for help is a risky business,” Dr. Cahoun explained. “We don’t know what awaits. But for these people, it is a risk worth taking, knowing that a life could be saved. On 9/11, those first responders took the risks to save lives.”
