Manchester Township together with the Manchester Township School District, and the Manchester community came together at Town Hall this morning to reflect on the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony honored the memory of the lives lost in, and as a result of, the attacks on that grim day in 2001.
Manchester honors and remembers those brave first responders, firefighters, police officers, service members, and volunteers who risked their lives to selfishly run toward the Towers to help on that very day, and in the days, weeks, and months to follow. In a touching keynote address, Manchester resident, EOCS (SCW) Chris Walaszek (Retired) U.S. Navy and Retired Manchester Township Police Corporal shared his story of bravery and experience during his time in the Navy leading up to 9/11/2001, responding as a member of the Manchester Township Police Department's SWAT team to the Towers on 9/11, and the events during those days after the attacks as he provided support. His story touched many as tears continued to flow down the faces of those in attendance today in the same way they did on the day of this tragedy.
Today's 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony at Town Hall provided an opportunity for the Manchester Township High School ROTC Color Guard to participate with the Manchester Township Police Department Honor Guard in the Presentation of Colors. Manchester Township High School ROTC member Larry Butts closed the ceremony by sharing his musical talent by playing "Taps" for everyone in attendance.
Thank you to our students and staff who came together with the Township and community today and helped make this remembrance ceremony special. The Manchester community is proud of you! And thank you to the students and staff across the entire Manchester Township School District who are observing, discussing, and honoring this day in school-wide parades, assemblies, classroom discussions, patriot wear, and more.
Manchester will never forget.