The town of Westford held its annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Friday September 11, 2020 at the 9/11 Memorial in Westford’s Public Safety Courtyard. Dozens were in attendance to honor the nearly 3000 men, women, and children who lost their lives in terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Prayers were read by retired Westford firefighter Jim Klecak and Westford Police Chief Tom McEnaney followed by a poetry reading from the Westford 9/11 Memorial Committee’s Nancy Cook.
U.S. Congresswoman Lori Trahan, State Representative James Arciero, and Select Board Chair Andrea Peraner-Sweet all gave their own reflections on that day. “I think one of the most important things that we can do today is to share with future generations the stories of the heroes that we all know so well”, said Trahan. “Those who persisted through unimaginable conditions to rescue as many people as they could. As well as the families that have bravely endured so much pain but continue to honor the stories of their lost loved one.”
“Here at home in Westford that day would impact us directly when we lost two of our very own citizens, Susan MacKay and James Hayden”, said Arciero. “Today, 19 years later, we remember and honor those courageous men and women who put themselves in harm’s way. The brave police, firefighters, and first responders who sacrificed their own lives to help people that they never knew.”
“We gather here today in unity”, said Peraner-Sweet. “United as a community in the memory of the exorbitant loss of life that day. United in our respect and recognition of the sacrifices made that day by so many. Where on that day and on this day, politics, political parties, and political agendas had and have no place and do not matter. Because on this day we are united in our tribute.”
The Westford Honor Guard was also in attendance. Veterans Service Officer Ryan Cobleigh presided over the ceremony.
