The Woodlands Township honors patriots, first responders of September 11

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Woodlands Township hosted two events on September 11, 2022, in memory of those who were lost during the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and in honor of the first responders who continue to selflessly serve the community daily.

The Township hosted the Patriot Day of Remembrance at 7:30 a.m. at The Woodlands Central Fire Station. Fire Chief Palmer Buck welcomed the group and reflected upon the service of September 11 first responders and the innocent lives lost during the attacks. Daria Chetraru sang the National Anthem before Township Director Jason Nelson offered the invocation and shared remarks along with a proclamation from the Board of Directors.

The event serves to remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, including hundreds of first responders who courageously entered harm’s way to help retrieve survivors and those who had perished.

After a reading of the Firefighter’s Prayer, the firefighters took part in The Ringing of the Bell, in honor of the 343 firefighters, eight paramedics and more than 70 law enforcement officers who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Following the bell ceremony, the group observed a moment of silence before closing remarks by Chief Buck. Bagpiper Patrick Salmon concluded the ceremony with a rendition of “Amazing Grace.”

At 5 p.m., the Township hosted First Responders Day at Northshore Park in conjunction with Concert in the Park. Director Jason Nelson welcomed the crowd and shared a proclamation from the Board of Directors. The event included live music performed by The Rock-A-Fellas, whose setlist included a variety of genres. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MSCO) Honor Guard made the Presentation of Colors and Daria Chetraru sang the National Anthem. A three gun volley was presented by the MCSO Honor Guard Rifle Team.

Also in attendance were Chief Palmer Buck of The Woodlands Fire Department, Captain Tim Holifield of MCSO, and Captain Jonathan Zitzmann of Harris County Precinct 4 Constable's Office. Each presented remarks about the heroism and bravery of first responders during the attacks of September 11, 2001. Township staff member Mark Lazenby provided a reading about the significance of First Responders Day, followed by a moment of silence.

To watch the ceremonies, please visit The Woodlands Township Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheWoodlandsTownship. For more information about The Woodlands Township, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.