As Alabama honored the 17th anniversary of September 11, 2001 with “Patriot Day” on Tuesday, Governor Kay Ivey spent time dedicating the Alabama Firefighter Memorial in Anniston, where she delivered a tribute to the fallen American heroes who perished on 9/11 and the first responders who are always there to serve selflessly when called upon.
In a video of the live speech posted by Jeff Eliasoph of WVTM 13 News, Ivey said after 9/11, “what emerged was the resiliency of the American patriot.”
“We will remember that day as the day first responders carried our nation on their back, and that day will always be remembered as the day that America refused to be shaken,” she said.
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Ivey also praised the first responders present at the dedication, thanking them repeatedly for their service and courage.
“[W]ithout you, we could not enjoy our daily lives, nor could we function as a society,” she remarked.
The governor continued, “It’s also important to remember that firefighters and law enforcement officials are role models in your communities. Our children look up to you … and all Alabamians look to you as protectors.”
As we remember 9/11, we also proudly honor the AL firefighters who gave their lives carrying out their duties by officially dedicating the Alabama Firefighter Memorial. We can never fully repay them for their service, but we can show our appreciation for their sacrifices. pic.twitter.com/NLJuXM8Fv7
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) September 11, 2018
As part of the ceremony, Ivey specifically honored the late Fire Chief Tracy Sanders, who was Mount Olive’s first female fire chief, a wife and a mother. The memorial in Anniston will forever be marked with her name along with the names of all of Alabama’s firefighters who died in the line of duty.
Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-3), Secretary of State John Merrill and other public officials were also on hand for the moving ceremony.
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A wonderful ceremony today dedicating the #Alabama Firefighter Memorial in #Anniston. #AL03
I was honored to speak today along with other state & local officials at the 9/11 Remembrance & dedication of the Alabama Firefighter Memorial at Centennial Park in Anniston. This event reminds us of the selfless sacrifice these men and women make for all of us every day. #All67 pic.twitter.com/QDIXlxNK18
— John Merrill (@JohnHMerrill) September 11, 2018
See how Alabama’s lawmakers honored the anniversary of September 11 here.
Sean Ross is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
