In his first public address as the Fire Department’s new leader, Chief David Toto gave the opening remarks at the Central Fire Station’s 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony. Attended by several Methuen residents as well as a few state and city leaders, the ceremony honored those who lives were lost 24 years ago.
Firefighters stood at attention surrounding the Memorial Bell at the front of the fire station while Mayor David “DJ” Beauregard read the names of those with Methuen connections whose lives were lost in the terrorist attacks: Douglas C. Gowell, Peter P. Hashem, Mildred R. Naiman, Marie Pappalardo, Patrick J. Quigley IV, and Kenneth E. Waldie.
Firefighter Steven Giarusso read “The Firefighters Prayer” and the Rev. Nathaniel Burnes gave blessings to the departed and to protect our firefighters.
One of Methuen’s newest firefighters, Luis Correa, had the honor of “Striking the Four Fives,” a tolling of the bell signifying the death of a firefighter in the line of service. Firefighters Patrick McKenna and Michael Bodenrader were given the honor of raising and lowering the flags to half-staff during the ceremony.
Methuen Fire Chief David Toto welcomed guests and family members to the ceremony and gave his first public speech as fire chief.
MFD’s newest firefighter, Luis Correa, was given the honor of “Striking the Four Fives,” signifying firefighters who died in the line of duty.
Mayor DJ Beauregard reads the names of those with Methuen ties who died on 9/11.
