Blue Mass Held to Honor First Responders

Sunday evening, a local church paid its respects to the victims of 9/11 and to all of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

At 4 pm st. James Episcopal Church offered a memorial service…What they call their ‘Blue Mass’ which included special music, a bagpipe player and an honor guard all as a tribute to those who have fallen. Mayor Jeff Tilton along with other local First Responders were all at the mass and we were able to speak with Fire Chief Eric Waltemire after the service:

“I was there as an invited guest and it’s important that we remember those who have fallen. It’s very important that we never forget what happened on 9/11 so anytime they’re going to honor firefighters, EMT’s, law enforcement I believe in being there to support that.”

9/11 is a fragile thing to talk about but we were able to speak to a church member who helped set up for this special event on why he likes to be a part of it:

“Just to honor the ones who are in service and 9/11. I was working on that day and I do remember that and how silent it was that day and it’s still…I still remember it in my heart, it’s a sad day but it must be remembered. That’s what this is for” said Michael Reiser.

The service was so beautiful he said…And talk of next year’s mass has already begun.