Emergency responders proceed into Quinte West Fire Station No. 1 in Trenton for the 9/11 remembrance ceremony. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
It was a day that changed everything.
A sombre ceremony at Quinte West Fire Station No. 1 on Wednesday morning marked the 18th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City.
The ceremony was attended by local dignitaries as well as regional firefighters, paramedics and police officers to mark the day which united emergency responders forever.
Fire Chief John Whalen speaks during the 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Trenton. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
Quinte West Fire Chief John Whalen says even though 343 firefighter lives were taken in one day, those who wear a uniform wouldn’t change a thing.
The ceremony was held in Quinte West this year, an idea brought forward by Belleville Fire Chief Mark MacDonald.
He said the idea came to him at a regional chiefs meeting and it made sense because in a major situation, emergency responders rely on each other.
Chief MacDonald says the tragedy changed a lot for firefighters, paramedics and police officers.
CFB Trenton was also on standby that day in case planes were redirected to 8 Wing.
Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison speaks during the 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Trenton. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
Belleville Mayor Mitch Panciuk speaks during the 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Trenton. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
Quinte West firefighter Joe McCombe rings the bell in remembrance of those who gave their lives during the September 11 terrorist attacks in New York City 18 years ago. (Photo: Amanda Smith/Quinte News)
