Adrian 9/11 Tribute tagged as "best yet"

Based on many comments from the gallery, the Adrian Fire Department 9/11 Procession and Tribute on Saturday was the best yet. Good weather prompted many spectators along the route who came to see the annual event, while fire companies and emergency management services from all over the area made their way through the procession. Accompanied by the Life Flight helicopter, the procession ended at the Adrian Optimist building where the program was held, under the direction of Adrian Fire Chief Gary Dizney.

The service was opened with a prayer from Adrian Fire Chaplain Jerry Bearce, then the Butler Fire Honor guard, under the direction of Tim Young, placed the flags on the stage. New for this year there was an official flag folding ceremony. David Ullery, Vice President of the Cass County Firefighters Association, explained the meaning behind each of the thirteen folds when the American Flag is properly folded. Mr. Ullery pointed out that the explanation of each fold is not typically included in the folding ceremony and felt that everyone should know about its true meaning.

The featured speaker was Jason Webb, Fire Marshall from Belton Mo., who explained how the very early days of firefighting were simply a bucket brigade; then during the late 1800's, it became better organized due to pressure from the insurance industry. This included formal training, better equipment and tools for firefighters.  He did point out that during the 1970's responsibilities were added to a firefighter's duties to include emergency medical training, rescue, hazardous materials cleanup and more. The focus of his speech was that the basic duties of firefighters has not changed over the years unlike many other professions-when there's a call to a fire, they go to work.

The tribute also included several songs, sung by members of the Calvary Baptist Church, accompanied by Pat Arnold. Several videos were shown including a new one that featured local veteran and firefighter memorials; the video was produced by Crystal McWilliams under the direction of Chief Dizney.

In conclusion, Chief Dizney again thanked everyone who helped put the tribute together and also thanked his wife and the spouses of firefighters and medics who devote their time to the industry. He also pointed out that his goal is keep doing the annual tribute to honor those who so selflessly lost their lives in the line of duty on September 11, 2001.

The program concluded just before noon and everyone was treated to refreshments.