Marines

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– Kevin White, the Indian Beach Fire Department chief, plays the bagpipe during the Law Enforcement Fellowship dinner aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Sept. 11. After everyone spoke at the dinner, White played “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipe, which was followed by a moment of silence to remember the first responders who lost their lives on 9/11.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Scott W. Whiting

9/11 first responders remembered

11 Sep 2012 | Lance Cpl. Scott W. Whiting Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

Sept. 11 is a time of reflection and remembrance for many Americans every year. Some people pay their respects to those who lost their lives in the plane crashes, while others pay tribute to the service members who fought and still are fighting overseas as a result of the attack.

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune held a Law Enforcement Fellowship dinner at the Officers’ Club aboard the installation in honor of remembering the first responders on the scene of the attack, many of whom lost their lives in the line of duty.

Brig. Gen. Thomas A. Gorry, commanding general of Marine Corps Installations East – MCB Camp Lejeune, was in attendance and spoke at the dinner.

“First responders always have one of the most important jobs when responding to an emergency,” said Gorry. “One of my favorite responsibilities here is the first responders we have on base. I’ve worked hand-in-hand with them and (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) agents, and they work hard to provide a secure environment for our families.”

The event itself was coordinated not just to remember 9/11 but specifically for the first responders who acted during the attacks.

“It was 11 years ago today, a lot of people sacrificed their lives, and since that time there have been many unsung heroes out there,” said Ernie Lee, a district attorney who spoke at the event. “Federal, state and local agencies have made great strides to keep us safe during the last 11 years. Those are the people you don’t hear much about.”

Lee said the agencies are always cooperative and very easy to work with as a district attorney. He congratulated them on always doing a good job in their work as well.

“When I’m at home with my wife and kids, they are out doing the real work and keeping the community safe for everyone,” said Lee.

Law enforcement officials were celebrated during the social dinner, having their dedication to responsibility and duty praised by many who spoke during the gathering.

“We don’t shorten our responsibilities,” said Sheriff Ed Brown, a speaker at the dinner. “We always get the job done. That’s what anyone here will tell you. We have a mission, and we will do that mission.”

Brown said he is grateful for the people are willing to do a dangerous job in the law enforcement field.

“Thank God for those who will step on the firing line and take responsibility of putting their lives on the line for the security of our community, protection of life and the defense of our country.”