There is Beauty in the Remembrance….“911”
By Chief Fred A. Maas

September this year is the 5th anniversary of 9-11. The remembrances and memorials are overwhelming. It seems that every city, every agency, every organization and group have scheduled their own particular ceremony. And that is good because we as Americans promised to “NEVER FORGET.”

Death is a process of denial, bereavement and acceptance. At first we cry aloud, “I can’t believe this happened!” And then, we grieve over the loss or the event, and finally, because of the human spirit and the need to endure, we accept and we move on.

Today, I saw America’s acceptance and strength. While going from Memorial to Memorial, this is what I saw in OUR CITY, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida.

I saw a new mother, pushing her newborn child in a stroller down Atlantic Avenue. I was in uniform so I felt comfortable stopping to talk to her. Her English was broken since she is from South America, but she knew what today, 9-11 was. She expressed sadness for what happened to America that day. But she said thank you for making the streets safe enough for her to walk her newborn baby around. Is there anything more beautiful than that sight?

Later, I saw a couple beaming over birthday cake. It was his birthday and up until 5 years ago it was a special day but for other reasons. Now, it is a subtle reminder of how precious life is and how quickly a day of joy can turn to sadness. That man is one of our commissioners and in his birthday wish he wished for peace for America and for his heritage in Israel, and our Sister City, Netanya.

Later that evening as I was departing for another 9-11 memorial service, I saw yet another sign of recovery. I saw an older couple, walking hand in hand, along Collins Avenue just enjoying the evening. I stopped and talked to them and I asked what they felt about today. They also were immigrants to the United States of America. They were very adamant about their feelings. They were new Americans who fled their country for democracy and could not believe what happened on that fateful day 5 years ago. The United States of America was now their home and the attacks were now on them as well.

Shortly thereafter, I attended a memorial service in Hollywood. The Sunny Isles Beach Honor Guard attended. They looked sharp as always, but even sharper than usual. This was their 2nd appearance of the day. They did it with smiles and a willingness to remember those who lost everything that fateful day. And that is what prompted this article.

Is there anything more beautiful than the security of a mother taking her child for a stroller ride with out fear?

Is there anything more heartwarming than an elderly couple still in love after all these years, taking a walk at night hand in hand thru the streets of their city?

Is there anything more sobering than an Honor Guard standing at attention presenting the colors, in honor of a fallen comrade who gave their life in service? I think not! And especially not on 9-11….

May God Bless America and Each of us, always!

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