Thursday marked the 24th anniversary of one of the darkest days of American history, as people around the nation paid tribute to the victims and honored the survivors of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Saratogians gathered in High Rock Park in front of the Tempered by Memory sculpture, created by Noah Savett, for the annual 9/11 commemoration and remembrance ceremony. Sevett, who was there, noted how honored he feels that the sculpture has become a backdrop for such an important event.
The keynote speaker was Sgt. Christopher Callahan of the Saratoga Springs Police Department, who spent 24 years serving in active duty and the reserves before retiring last year. He is a lifelong Saratogian and has served in several capacities within the SSPD during the past 16 and a half years, currently as the sergeant in charge of the Investigation Division and as one of the department’s first aid and active shooter response trainers. During his speech, which was met with a standing ovation, Callahan talked about his personal memories of 9/11 and its impact on his life and those around him – recounting where he was when he heard about the attacks as well as the heroism displayed by the many men and women who risked and gave their lives during the attacks.
“I’ve yet to get through a 9/11 since 2001 without shedding more than a few tears for all those who lost their lives that day,” Callahan said. “I also can’t help but feel a sense of pride for all those who stood up and answered the call when their fellow countrymen needed them. I’m thankful for all the brave men and women who responded to the Twin Towers that day and saved as many lives as they could.
“I’m thankful for all the men and women here today who have volunteered to run into burning buildings to save lives, or to run towards the sound of gunfire when everyone else runs from it.”
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