Staff Report

The tragedy of September 11, 2001 has, in many minds, redefined the world in which we live.

Today across the nation, many will take time to painfully reflect on the day that changed the course of history.

On this unforgettable day, terrorists, using planes as ammunition, took down the Twin Towers in New York City, and crashed into the Pentagon. Later that morning, aircraft passengers thwarted a terrorist attempt, bringing another plane down in Pennsylvania.

The horror of Sept. 11 resulted in the death of thousands. Emergency public safety crews vigilantly responded to desperate calls for help, in some cases resulting in the lost of their own lives.

Several Suffolk police and firefighters donated countless hours and energy to the rescue efforts in both New York and Washington D. C..

Today, in Suffolk, members of the Citizens Academy Alumni of Suffolk will thank the hundreds of city emergency workers that make the city’s sense of security possible.

So from 1 to 4 p.m., the third annual Public Safety Officer Appreciation Day takes place at Coulbourn Park on Constance Road.

The annual public safety event was created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks to recognize Suffolk’s dedicated professionals.

At 2:30 p.m. at the appreciation day, Suffolk’s own country music recording artist Jason Swain will perform. Maralyn &uot;Mad Dog&uot; Hershey is expected to attend. Smithfield Packing Co. has donated 50 Boston Butts.

The Public Safety Officer of the Year will be announced at the event.

A 9-11 candlelight memorial will begin at 7 p.m. at the Seaboard Train Station and Railroad Museum on North Main Street.