SAGUACHE – On Sept. 11, first responders participated in a parade held on 4th Street in Saguache. The street was lined with people happily watching as the local fire and rescue trucks, Saguache County Sheriff trucks, and a Saguache County ambulance, drove down the street with their lights and sirens on, in remembrance of the 9/11 tragedy.
Shortly after the parade, the groups gathered at the fire station, where a moment of silence and special prayer was said to honor the fallen heroes of 9/11.
Inside of the station, baked goodies were laid out for everyone to eat, including brownies, cookies, frosted cupcakes, cheesecake, and fruit. There were also light drinks served at the celebration.
Mackenzie Hammel, who is the director of the Northern Saguache County Ambulance District, spoke about the event, and why it was held.
“Tonight, we had a little parade and had a little get together in remembrance of 9/11. We do this every year, it’s bigger this year than it has been the last couple of years,” Hammel said.
Hammel, 26, has been a part of the ambulance district her entire life.
“My dad was the previous director, and I became the director in January. It’s really been nice for all of us as a first responder family to get together tonight, and for us to also spend this time together, because we never know if we could end up in an emergency like that at some point,” Hammel said.
Saguache Volunteer Fire Department Chief Kendal Adolph spoke about the event, and about his crew being there.
“It’s been a good turnout. Every year since 9/11 we have dedicated this time, and we all gather together and do a little parade around town with our sirens on. We read a couple of poems, we do a moment of silence, say the pledge of allegiance and we also just gather for fellowship. It’s great,” he said.
