Utica Fire Chief Russel Brooks to Hold Annual 9/11 Memorial Service

This year will mark the 15th anniversary of one of the worst terror attacks on American soil. On September 11th, 2001 two planes crashed into the World Trade Center towers in Manhattan, one flew into The Pentagon in Washington D.C., and one crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. Too many American lives were lost, but none will ever be forgotten. That is why Chief Russel Brooks of The Utica Fire Department will once again hold an annual memorial service to remember those who perished on that fateful day.

On Sunday, September 11th, 2016 at the corner of the Memorial Parkway and Sherman Drive in Utica, starting exactly at 8:46 a.m. Volunteers, memorial service participants, and community dignitaries will take turns reading the names of those first-responders who lost their lives trying to rescue whomever they could from the attack. The significance of 8:46 a.m. is the exact time that the first plane hit the first tower.

This day is one that is very close to Chief Brooks' heart. He was one of a number of firefighters, police, and EMT who volunteered to go down and help with the rescue efforts on that day. He recently revealed to our sister station, First News with Keeler on WIBX, that he is now remission from a cancer diagnosis that was directly attributed to the dust and debris from the collapsed towers.

The organizers of the event are still seeking volunteers to read names for the ceremony. If you are interested in participating, you can contact the Chief's office at (315) 792-0264.