Paint Creek Joint EMS/Fire honors 9/11 victims

The Paint Creek Joint EMS/Fire District recognized the first responders and victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks with a flag lowered above High Street in uptown Hillsboro.

Governor John R. Kasich ordered flags flown at half-staff upon all public buildings on Sept. 11 from sunrise to sunset in honor of Patriot Day.

“The events of September 11, 2001 and the loss of nearly 3,000 innocent men, women and children, and the attack on the freedoms and values we hold dear, will never be forgotten,” Kasich said in a resolution signed Sept. 10. “The moments following the disaster saw countless acts of heroism and bravery as police, firefighters and other first responders raced to the scene to save lives. Over 400 emergency workers lost their lives while trying to protect and serve, and countless others face ongoing health problems since that fateful day.

“Since 9/11, our nation has faced continuing threats to our safety, our values and our way of life, and many Ohioans have answered the call to protect us both at home and abroad. We honor and pay tribute to our courageous men and women in uniform serving around the world, as well as to the dedicated members of our law enforcement, public safety and intelligence communities who work diligently and tirelessly to protect us from danger, and when called upon, stand willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the freedoms we value."

“We embrace the memory of the men, women and children lost that day as we remain united in the fight against tyranny and oppression. The resiliency of the American spirit is one that must be cultivated, cherished and nourished, and we pray for continued strength for generations to come.