Spirit of New York is high, unbroken

On the week of Nov. 4, four members of the Marysville Fire District traveled to New York to lend support for our fallen brothers of the Fire Department New York (FDNY), lost in the Sept. 11th attacks. We had received information that, due to obvious circumstances, FDNY personnel were not able to attend all of the funeral and/or memorial services in the numbers they are accustomed to. Where traditionally several thousand members may be present to honor a fallen brother or sister killed in the line of duty, now only a few are able to attend. The call for help was sounded, we responded.

During our four-day stay, we attended multiple services around the city of New York. We heard the Mayor, a former Governor, the Fire Commissioner and other dignitaries speak about these fine brothers. More importantly, we listened to the families and co-workers reflect on their memories. Although we never knew any of these men personally, we feel, as all firefighters must, that we have lost family as well.

Listening to their stories and witnessing the devastation, the toll has been great. It is unimaginable. And yet the FDNY found time to treat us as their own. The spirit of New York City is high and unbroken. We were welcomed and shown appreciation by the FDNY, New York Police Department (NYPD) and the citizens of New York City.

It was a great honor to represent our community and the Marysville Fire District on this mission. We have never been more proud to be members of the fire service.

Thank you Marysville Professional Firefighters/IAFF Local 3219 for providing financial assistance.

TRAVIS HOTS, FIREFIGHTER

Marysville Fire District

Marysville

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