By Clyde Noel
Town Crier Staff Report
Community events in Los Altos and Mountain View pay tribute to 9/11 heroes and victims
In a solemn “Remembering 9/11″ ceremony last Wednesday evening, a Los Altos firefighter struck a single bell three times in memory of the firefighters who died in the World Trade Center a year ago.
“Sept. 11 was a day to remember. It brought out the best of us,” said Ben Lopes, Santa Clara County Central Fire District chief. “It has changed us all. We will be there when you call.”
The Los Altos/Los Altos Hills commemorative program brought more than 650 people to the Hillview soccer field to salute local law enforcement. The horrors of 9/11 brought the realization that these people risk their lives to help others.
With a gigantic U.S. flag in the background and patriotic bunting around the stage, each of the hometown security personnel stood on the stage as his or her name was called.
“This was a great opportunity to acknowledge the people who stick their necks out for us,” said Sid Hubbard, co-chairman of the event.
Art Carmichael, former Los Altos mayor, provided an explanation for the attitude of New Yorkers after 9/11.
“The same people who shove you in the subway were asking for autographs at the St. Patrick’s parade six months later,” Carmichael said. “The 343 fire recruits carrying flags in honor of their lost comrades were very impressive.”
Don Johnson, Los Altos police chief, said the anniversary event would help the grieving.
“Since 9/11, we have moved from a local to a regional response, and now we have plans to work with other agencies,” Johnson said. “Our greatest lesson is how to be servants to the community we serve.”
“We must protect the qualities that make our nation great and not give in to fear,” Moderator Dick Henning said. “We are changed as a nation and a community and we need to review our commitment and face the challenges ahead.”
Jim and Tami Mulcahy of Los Altos were among the many families who attended.
“What a moving display of a community acknowledging an event 3,000 miles away with passion,” Tami said. “It shows our love and solidarity,”
Tracie Murray said it made her proud to be an American. “This event was awesome.”
The “Remembering 9/11″ program was made possible through the efforts of the organizing committee and numerous volunteers along with the co-sponsors.
In a noontime ceremony, Los Altos Councilwoman Kris Casto helped dedicate “Patriot Corner” in Shoup Park. A commemorative plaque was unveiled before a small group of 50 residents.
“I noticed most of those who were killed were in their 30s and 40s, and that means there are a lot of kids without parents,” Casto said. “Patriot Corner is dedicated to the survivors and will be used for weddings, birthday parties and social events.”
Los Altos resident Bob Simon helped design the plaque and contributed his thoughts with a quotation from “America the Beautiful” to share the American spirit and show how proud we are of our country.
“This celebration is very important. … This will remind us we have to be on alert and hope it will never happen again,” said LuVain G. Bue of Los Altos.
