by Steve Bradley
A 9/11 Memorial Parade and Service was held on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Hoosick Falls. A parade began at the Hoosick Falls Firehouse, went down Main Street and ended at Wood Park. The parade consisted of area first responders and their equipment, Boy and Girl Scouts, bagpipers, clergy, politicians, American Legion members and community band members. There were about 15 emergency vehicles in the parade from all around the area. First responders traveled from as far away as West Sand Lake.
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Upon reaching the park, the community band played several songs, including the National Anthem with Dave Sutton singing. North Hoosick Fire Department chief Alan Bornt served as Master of Ceremonies with Reverend Michael Benoit providing the Invocation and Benediction.
Speakers included Former Hoosick Supervisor Marilyn Douglas, who was the Town Supervisor on 9/11, Rensselaer County Executive Kathy Jimino, and former Chief of the Hoosick Fire Department Bill Rifenburg who spent time at ground zero as part of the NYS Technical Rescue Assistance Team. He described how he ended up at the scene and what he saw there.
After the speeches a Candle Light Vigil was held which included David Sutton singing God Bless America with the Hoosick Falls Community Band. The service was dedicated to all the individuals who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
It was a beautiful tribute greatly appreciated by all who participated and attended.[/private]