Macomb Marks 9/11 Anniversary at Fallen Heroes Memorial

A crowd gathered in downtown Mount Clemens Sunday to mark the somber 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the lives that were lost in New York, the Pentagon, and United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania.

Police, firefighters, emergency medical service providers and community members stood at the Macomb County Fallen Heroes Memorial in front of the Macomb County Circuit Court to pay tribute to those who lost their lives.

Capt. Gary Ross with the Macomb Township Fire Department was there to pay his respects to his fellow fallen firefighters.

"Since 9/11, we've come to recognize how precious life is and how quickly it can be taken away and the scars still run deep," said Ross.

Supporting first responders

New Baltimore Mayor Larry Smith was there to show his support for New Baltimore Fire Chief Ken Lawfield and the first responders of not only New Baltimore, but everywhere. Lawfield is also head of the Macomb County Fire Chiefs Association.

"I still remember what I was doing on 9/11," said Smith. "I remember being in my home, getting ready to leave and then hearing it on the radio. I turned on the television and remember watching this horrible event unfold."

Lt. Mark Oermann of the Macomb County Sheriff Department said it does not feel like it has been 10 years since the attacks, and that he still feels for the loss - especially for the families of the first responders.

"They won't get to see them again, or hug them or hold them," said Oermann. "They lost someone dear to them suddenly."

Gary Lewandowski, who is part of the Macomb County Sheriff Department Motorcycle Division, said 9/11 has had an impact on him too.

He said he's now more aware of homeland security and looks for things that could be threatening to the community or suspicious.

Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham, who was one of the featured speakers at the event, said the terrorist attacks changed the way local law enforcement thinks as well.

Rather than just focus on local crime, he said, the sheriff's department must think nationally and to work regionally to ensure public safety. 

Sgt. Renee Yax of the New Haven Police Department said since 9/11, she is more aware of the threats out there and it also makes her appreciate the role she has in the community.

"It makes me feel grateful to have a job I enjoy every day," said Yax.

Recognizing the fallen

In the audience was Marty Prehn of St. Clair Shores.

He was there to represent Army Staff Sgt. Richard "Joey" Jordan of Harrison Township as a fallen hero. Jordan, 29, was who was killed last year in Iraq just days before he was to return home to his wife and kids. 

Prehn helped get the Macomb County Commissioners to pass a resolution declaring Jordan a national hero.

Macomb County Board of Commissioners Chair Kathy Vosburg of Chesterfield Township was there to show her support.

"I want to thank the county's first responders for their vigilance and dedication to preserving the health and security of our community," said Vosburg. "We mourn the loss of those who were lost. We will forever appreciate what they gave for their country."

Organizers reflect on the event

Roseville Firefighter Bob Woonton, who spearheaded the creation of the memorial, welcomed the participants and the crowd while thanking them for their continued support of first responders.

"It was a very good turnout," said Woontoon, of the event that included a bagpiper, raising of the flag, prayer and a candlelight vigil.