Salinas Police and Fire Departments unite for 9/11 ceremony
Salinas Fire and Police Departments united Wednesday morning to remember the events and lives lost on September 11, 2001.
It’s a day which has stuck in the minds of those who witnessed everything unfold in what was more than 100 minutes of shock and terror in the United States.
“I know Americans are sick and tired of terror. But they are fearful,” says Salinas Police Chief Adele Frese during the 9/11 memorial. “They are fearful the attacks of 9/11 will happen again.”
Multiple planes hijacked in a coordinated effort to attack landmarks in the U.S.
In the end the hijacked aircrafts crashed into the World Trade Center’s North and South towers in New York. Planes also crashed into the Pentagon in D.C. with one crash-landing in a remote area of Pennsylvania.
The twin towers would ultimately collapse following the planes colliding into the towers.
Nearly 3,000 people died that day in what is considered the deadliest terrorist attack on the United States.
“Our methods may change but our goals remain the same, as they were in the past,” says Interim Salinas Fire Chief, Sam Klemek. “Save lives, protect property…sometimes at a terrible cost.”
Residents who saw what happened that day were shocked and still have chills whenever they see video from the events that day.
“Being that young, not knowing the full extent of it until later on in life,” says Salinas Resident, Haley Baxter.
Police Chief Frese re-iterated the department’s commitment to the city, especially in light of recent mass shootings which have taken place as close as Gilroy.
“Look at the faces of my officers. Our officers are ready to draw their weapons when the need arises and holster them when peace is restored. They haven’t left you. They’re here to serve,” says Frese.
Meanwhile, Salinas Fire Chief Pablo Barreto wished everyone to not take life for granted as they continue to never forget the terrible attacks on 9/11
“Tonight before you go to sleep, in preparation for your life tomorrow. Kiss the ones you love. Thank your neighbor. Be kind,” says Barreto.
