Local first responders recall 9/11 courage, stress need for preparedness

Three local first-responder leaders spoke in sequence about Sept. 11, 2001 and its effects on public safety. Sheriff Bill Greenwald recounted his memories of that day and the collective shock that followed, highlighting the bravery of responders and noting the human cost: ‘‘2,977 people lost their lives on 09/11/2001,’’ he said while describing the flights and sites involved.

Chief Mike McQuiston said the attacks reshaped training, communication and interagency work, and emphasized that preparedness requires ‘‘constant training, constant learning and a constant commitment to improvement.’' Deputy Chief James Bellower addressed how future generations will learn about 9/11 and stressed the community’s responsibility to keep those stories and memorials alive. Speakers linked remembrance to ongoing public-safety practices and community resilience.