McConnell Patriot Day Remembers Fallen Heroes

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jessica Lockoski
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- --  When the sound of bagpipes cries "Amazing Grace" to the masses, it may seem as if time suddenly stops, minds rewind to ignite poignant memories, eyes fog and an audience reflects on people who once survived and flourished. 

This stillness was present during the Patriot Day Ceremony Sept. 11 at the base fire department when McConnell's first responders and local Wichita, Kan. firefighters, medical teams and law enforcement joined together to commemorate Sept. 11, 2001. 

"Being here provides a stronger bond between our military and civilian first responders," said Sedgwick County Fire Chief Gary Curmode. "Its right to come here during non-emergency events, especially when we find ourselves working side by side on duty and training together on a bi-monthly basis." 

This day marks the seven-year anniversary since the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington D.C. were attacked, and nearly 3,000 people died on American soil. Not only do patriots around the world gather to remember the fallen, they recap on the triumphs this tragedy brought to the U.S. 

"The victims of 9/11 are all heroes, not just because they gave their lives or had their lives taken, but because they lived as free Americans, with many in service to their communities and this great nation," said Col. Michael Krueger, 22nd Air Refueling Wing vice commander and presiding ceremony officer.

Both McConnell and community members bowed their heads in a silent prayer lead by McConnell Chaplain Boyd Short. 

"On this day, we remember moments of terrible tragedy, yet also remember moments of incredible beauty in the human spirit," said Chaplain Short. "Remember the inspiring acts of heroism delivered by courageous souls who bravely faced danger to save many." 

A bell rang for all those responders who were called to duty and now serve on eternal downtime. 

In addition, the audience remembered the military, civilian and Department of Defense patriots who are now also on eternal watch with the firing of a cannon by Soldiers from the Army 89th Regional Readiness Command. 

The last blast echoed in through the doors of fire department as bagpiper Aaron Montgomery from Wichita Caledonian Pipes and Drums played "Amazing Grace." 

"Despite all of the dreadful memories this day invokes, we also remember the good and stand proud as Americans," said Colonel Krueger. "Seven years after the attack on our country, America remains strong and resolute, patient in a just cause, and confident that we will prevail over those who strive to take away the basic human right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." 

Unified by the nature of their jobs and harmonized in their similar respective uniforms, civilian first responders waived salutations alongside Team McConnell Airmen in salute to the presentation and retirement of the U.S. flag, signifying the end of the ceremony.