Remembering a tragic day

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 11 September 2014 at 12:00 am

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – This 9-11 flag was raised outside the Elks Lodge on West State Street after a memorial service this morning in Albion.

Orleans County Legislator Don Allport, left, teams with State Assemblyman Steve Hawley and Larry Montello, a leader with the American Legion, in raising the 9-11 flag. Montello organized the memorial service today.

Jodi Genno of the Albion Fire Department carries a helmet to represent the 343 firefighters who died on Sept. 11, 2001.

During the service, the group observed a moment of silence for Rochester police officer Daryl Pierson, who was fatally shot last week.

Jason Spencer, COVA director of operations, lights a candle in memory of the first responders who perished in the terrorist attacks 13 years ago today.

David Rearick, a member of the American Legion Riders, lights a memorial candle during the service.

County Legislator Don Allport tells a crowd of about 50 people at a 9-11 memorial service that world remains an unsafe place and the United States is vulnerable to attack.

“I don’t feel safer today,” Allport said. “Our borders are open. The terrorists don’t need a fake ID. They can just walk across the border.”

Allport said the country needs to be united in the fight against terrorists.

State Assemblyman Steve Hawley, left, also addressed the group. He said the terrorist attacks drew the country together and strengthened Americans’ resolve. Today, the 13th anniversary of the attack, should be a day to honor firefighters, police officers and other first responders, Hawley said.

Larry Montello, coordinator of the memorial service, displays mementos from 9-11, including badges for the 343 firefighters who died and 23 New York City police officers who perished.