Inspire, Fall 2002

Inspire 5 Honoring America’s Heroes—September 11, 2002 A n overflow crowd of approximately 4,000 people gathered in the Jeremiah Chapel on September 11, 2002 to commemorate what many Americans have come to refer to as “Patriot Day.” The Patriot Day ceremony, called “United We Stand: A Patriotic Program of Remembrance, Honor, and Commitment,” sought to honor our nation, firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and military service members on the anniversary of the tragic September attack. The service began with a military color guard, patriotic music by the University Symphonic Band, and prayer. Video footage of the attacks vividly reminded all of the unbelievable events of that fateful day. Forensics students gave dramatic presentations of just a few of the harrowing and heartbreaking accounts of New York firefighters and police officers. As the band played the “National Emblem March,” Cedarville was honored to welcome firefighters, law enforcement officers, and EMTs to the platform. The crowd gave these everyday heroes a standing ovation. One of the heroes on stage was Dr. Randy Marriott ’85, an emergency physician who traveled to Ground Zero as part of Ohio Task Force One. Following the attacks, he worked 12 to 14 hour days assisting in rescue and recovery. Additional alumni who served at Ground Zero (but were not able to attend the ceremony) included Jim Gruenberg ’84 and Dave Dustin ’85. Jim, who is captain at the Kettering (Ohio) Fire Department, served as a liaison between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urban search and rescue task forces and the New York City Fire Department. Dave, an FBI Agent, provided tactical medical support to FBI agents at Ground Zero and at Fresh Kills Evidence Processing Center on Staten Island. Following the tribute to civilian heroes, America’s military service members, past and present, were called to the platform. As the band played the themes of each branch of the military, these men and women received a standing ovation in recognition of their dedication and sacrifice. More patriotic songs and special music ensued, and Cedarville students distributed flags for the singing of “God Bless America.” Under the leading of Dr. Dixon ’94H, the capacity crowd closed the service with an a capella version of “Christ is All I Need.” Afterwards, attendees had the opportunity to meet and personally thank the firefighters, police officers, and EMTs who were on hand. The University plans to hold a Patriot Day service each September 11 to honor our heroes. For more than 20 years, the University also held an annual Memorial Day ceremony, but since classes will no longer be in session in late May (due to the transition from quarters to semesters), the Memorial Day service will merge with the September 11 Patriot Day ceremony. This annual service will honor all those—both civilian and military—who have paid a heavy price in the service of fellow Americans and this nation. All are welcome to attend.