| The Lisbon Volunteer Fire Company would like to pay tribute to all of those killed on September 11, 2001. As the five year observance draws closer we are all forced to look back on that day. There were thousands of lives lost and millions more affected by those events.
Among those killed that day were firefighters, police officers, and thousands of innocent civilians. Chief Warrant Officer William Ruth, a resident of Mount Airy, MD, was killed at the Pentagon. He was in his National Guard Recruiting office in the "D Ring"at the Pentagon. That office was in the direct path of American Airlines Flight 77. Mr. Ruth was a Social Studies teacher at Damascus High School for 30 years. He was also Post Commander for VFW Post 10076 in Mount Airy. Amidst his direct contributions to the community Mr. Ruth also served in Viet Nam for 640 missions in 1966. He was also on the ground for Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. Five years later our thoughts, gratitude, and prayers are still with Mr Ruth and his family, whom reside in Ohio.
Lisbon Volunteer Fire Company will also never forget the 343 firefighters killed while on duty that day. They are still our brothers and our prayers still lie with their families. YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN!
No one died in vain that day. Never in our nations history has a country shown more patriotism. A nation pulled together in support of thousands of people they had never met. They showed us the true meaning of "united" in THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. May we never forget the feeling of helplessness that fueled our comradery.
In the strong and lasting words of Todd Beamer, United Airlines Flight 93, "Let's Roll!" |
