By Staff
The city of Madison will host a sunrise memorial service at 6:30 a.m. at the Discovery Middle School football field on Hughes Road to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Sept. 11.
The ceremony will include the Madison Fire and Police Department Honor Guard – who will raise the flag; city of Madison Police Chaplain Rufus Slack Jr. – to lead the prayer; and the Bob Jones High School Choir – to lead the song service.
Madison Police Chief Dan Busken and Acting Fire Chief Greg Garner will speak. Madison Mayor Jan Wells will read a letter of appreciation received from Dr. Steven Gorelick, for the act of kindness the Madison police officers exhibited in responding to the needs of New York City.
The ceremony is expected to end at 7 a.m. Mayor wells invites everyone to attend this ceremony before starting the workday.
"In case you do not have time to attend this ceremony, I have included Dr. Gorelick's letter," Wells said.
Friends in Madison, Alabama,
As we approach the one-year anniversary of 9/11, I wanted to let each and every one of my Alabama friends know that Madison's act of kindness is still with me. In fact, by now many people across the country have read the story of how a small Alabama town sent their finest police officers to help us here in New York City after the events of 9/11.
Even more thrilling for me is that a number of you have visited me in New York City. The invitation stands and will always stand. I'd love to show you around.
Meanwhile, best wishes for a wonderful year.
The one year anniversary will not be easy for any of us, but my day will almost certainly be made easier by memories of Madison, Alabama's act of kindness and generosity. And like many Americans, I will have on my mind the supreme sacrifice of Johnny Michael Spann, a courageous son of Alabama, who gave his life in Afghanistan so that we might live in freedom.
You see, I told you all I would never forget.
Best,
Steve
Dr. Steven Gorelick
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
CUNY Graduate Center
365 5th Avenue
New York, New York 10016
"I am proud of my Madison neighbors, friends and co-workers. I thank you for the privilege to lead a city whose heart and sense of stewardship is so strong. Together we can do great things," Wells said.
Agenda for service at Discovery Middle School
6:15 a.m. Guests arrive and are seated
6:20 a.m. Police and fire line up on field
6:25 a.m. Honor guard lines up on field line
6:30 a.m. Raise flag and Pledge of Allegiance
6:35 a.m. Moment of silence – prayer by chaplain
6:40 a.m. National Anthem
6:45 a.m. Mayor speaks
6:50 a.m. Police chief speaks
6:53 a.m. Fire chief Speaks
6:55 a.m. Amazing Grace
7 a.m Dismissal