Tiffin never forgets

TIFFIN — A memorial was held in remembrance of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks at the Tiffin Police and Fire All Patriots Memorial in downtown Tiffin early Thursday morning. The ceremony was coordinated to begin at 8:46 a.m., when the first plane struck the World Trade Center. Speaking at the event were several individuals, beginning with TPD Lt. Detective Mark Marquis, who shared a powerful anecdote. He began by recognizing that not everyone in attendance of the ceremony will remember that day, saying "some of you may not have even been born yet." Marquis continued, saying "However, I can remember it all so vividly — even today. I remember wanting to pack a bag, to go and fight a then-unknown enemy because they had dared to attack our great nation." Also remembered by Marquis, though, was the impact of the attacks on local communities throughout the country — saying that everyone had become much closer to their neighbors and began to rely more on first responders. Adding to this anecdote was TFRD Deputy Chief Mike Hohman, who acknowledged that some of Tiffin's newest firefighters were not yet born when the attacks happened. "As first responders, we train for moments like this and hope that they never actually come," said Hohman. "It's important to remember all of the victims that day, as many everyday people were heroes then, too, much like they are today. The community showed up when it mattered — something I am proud to say continues today." As part of the ceremony, a flag donated by Tiffin native and veteran Richard Martin was raised at the memorial. This same flag was flown on the last C-130 heading out of Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Also in attendance for the event was retired Army Brigadier General Mark Schied, who further commended the actions of first responders during the attacks. "I often think of Todd Beamer's famous last words, 'Let's Roll' before he and other passengers stormed the cockpit to stop the terrorists on Flight 93. These guys ran towards the danger, saving countless lives– a true act of heroism," said Schied. The All Patriots Memorial was installed 13 years ago not only to pay tribute to those affected by the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, but also to recognize first responders who had fallen while remaining active service members. The ceremony concluded with a 21-gun salute, as well as the playing of taps. Community members were joined by several first responders, including members of Tiffin Police Department, Tiffin Fire/Rescue Division, Seneca County Sheriff's Office, Seneca County EMS and more.