On Saturday, September 11, 2021, members of the Union Bridge Fire Company Honor Guard were honored to assist with the ceremony for the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 at the Carroll County Public Safety Training Center in Westminster. The public, members of the Carroll County Government, officers of CCVESA, as well as representatives and equipment from our 14 fire departments; gathered at 8:30 AM as "Tower 3" raised a large United States of America flag over the 9/11 artifact enshrined at the entrance to the training center.

CCVESA First Vice President Sue Mott (PVFD) began by welcoming everyone. The Union Bridge Fire Company Honor Guard opened ceremony with the "Posting of the Colors" followed by the invocation from Deacon Barnhart.

The ceremony paused for a moment of silence at 8:46 as a bell was rung to honor the first tower strike and again at 9:03 for the second tower strike.

The ceremony included several speakers who shared their thoughts, the history of our memorial, the heroic actions of those at "ground zero" and the need to always remember what happened on that tragic day in American history. The speakers for the ceremony were:

Colonel US Army (retired) Commissioner Edward Rothstein
CCVESA Past President Charles Simpson
Sheriff James Dewees
President Local IAFF 5184 Michael Karolenko
Director Carroll County Fire/EMS Michael Robinson
Commissioner Stephen Wantz

A wreath was laid on the memorial by a group led by Second Vice President George Wentz (UBFC). Then, Pleasant Valley FD member Greg Wantz provided Taps. Deacon Barnhart provided the Benediction, followed by the "Retrieval of the Colors" by the Honor Guard. Bag Piper Ivan Browning (MAVFC) played 'Amazing Grace' and escorted the Honor Guard as they retired the colors.

Ceremonies like this were held across the country in an effort to never forget that tragic day; and continue to make sure future generations understand how Americans can come together when faced with extreme adversity.