Recalling U.S. Bravery

In that group, five lost their lives. They include:

— Army Sergeant James Charles Matteson who died Nov. 12, 2004;

— Army Private Charles Cooper who died April 29, 2005;

— Army PFC Patrick May who died Sept. 2, 2008;

Chaplin Barb Colt gives the Benediction during the Chautauqua County Joint Veterans Council Sept. 11 ceremony.

— Marine Lance Corporal Aaron Swanson who died Feb. 7, 2011;

— Army Sergeant Kevin White who died May 2, 2011.

On Wednesday during a ceremony outside the Chautauqua County Courthouse, Henry Link, Chautauqua County American Legion Honor Guard Commander, read each name and a bell was rung in their memories.

Those five, along with Amy King, a flight attendant on one of the planes that was hijacked and intentionally crashed into the Twin Towers, were remembered as local victims of the terrorist attacks.

The 42 minute ceremony was attended by area politicians, veterans, and members of the general public.

A three volley salute was given during the Chautauqua County Joint Veterans Sept. 11 ceremony.
P-J photos by Gregory Bacon

Among the speakers was county Veterans Director Greg Carlson. “The American story is not one of perfection, but it is a beautiful story nonetheless. It’s an ideal that after nearly 250 years we still pursue,” he said.

County Executive PJ Wendel noted how today firefighters are still dying from “9-11 disease,” referring to those who got cancer after breathing in all the ashes in New York City.

Wendel noted that one of those who died recently he personally took firefighting classes from.

“We must remember those, nearly 3,000 that lost their lives that day, but also remember the thousands who are continuing to lose their lives,” he said.

Assemblyman Andy Goodell said the United States must stand up against those who want to take away freedoms of others.

“9/11 reminds us that there are people out in that world who are truly evil, who are brutal, who have no morals, who have no scruples. It’s our responsibility to help make the world a safer, more just and more equitable place for everyone,” he said.

To close out the ceremony, a three-volley salute rang out, followed by the playing of Taps.