Solemn ceremonies, blood drive, and charity soccer match mark 25th anniversary of Sept. 11

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Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) made certain to honor all those who lost their lives in the tragic attacks of Sept. 11, 25 years ago. Each on-duty member stood at attention in front of their stations at 6:59 a.m. and 7:28 a.m., marking the collapse of each tower of the World Trade Center.

At 10 a.m. in the Naito Fountain area of Waterfront Park there was an honorable memorial ceremony that included the PF&R Pipes & Drums Band, the PF&R Honor Guard, and a water display from Fireboat 21 to end the ceremony. Impactful messages were shared from Chief Lauren Johnson, Mayor Keith Wilson, and PFFA Local 43 vice president Kris Webb. This event is held annually, and all are welcome. We hope that you will place this on your calendar to join us next year as we continue to honor all those affected by attacks. We will never forget….

We partner with the Red Cross to set up an annual blood donation drive at PF&R Station 1. Many people donated blood, helping local hospitals during the current dire need for available blood. A few wise folks reserved a blood donation time to enable attendance at the memorial ceremony and donate blood.

The final event of the day was the 9th annual charity soccer match pitting PF&R against the Portland Police Bureau. Entry into the game was a donation to Toy n Joy Makers or the Sunshine Division, two organizations that are supported throughout the year by PF&R and PPB, respectively. Fire had the upper hand in the game and was able to bring back the timber round to Fire with a 4-0 final score. There are already plans being made to host the 10^th annual 9/11 Memorial Match. All are welcome to attend and enjoy this charity game that is a fun night connecting the community to their firefighters and police officers, truly benefitting those in need in our communities