Patriots Point Honors First Responders and Familiespatriotspoint Sep 17, 2012
In recognition of their outstanding service to the community – and in commemoration of the 11th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks – Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum offered special extended hours and free admission for first responders and their immediate families on Sunday, September 9.
The museum remained open from 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. to allow all police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, volunteer fire and rescue teams, highway patrol officers, sheriffs, and emergency operators who work in shifts a chance to visit.
At 2:00 that afternoon, Patriots Point hosted a program to honor those who served and died on 9/11 as well as those who continue to serve our communities. The program featured music by the Charleston Police Pipes and Drums and a wreath-laying by a veteran of the U.S. Navy submarine service and a Firefighter from the City of Charleston.
“We want to give back to the heroes who have dedicated their lives to protecting our safety and well-being,” said Patriots Point Executive Director Mac Burdette, noting that their work requires a commitment not just from the first responder, but from their families as well. “These brave men and women are the first to answer the call when a dangerous situation arises and this is our way of showing our appreciation for all that they do.”
- View a photo gallery of this program at Patriots Point.
Also that weekend, the Travis Manion Foundation hosted the 2012 9/11 Heroes Run at Patriots Point. This charity run raised awareness of the sacrifices made by the heroes of September 11, including veterans, first responders, members of the military and civilians.
Patriots Point is proud to partner with public safety agencies to support first responders and provide valuable training opportunities. The Mount Pleasant Police and Fire Departments, as well as the North Charleston Police Department, conduct rescue drills throughout the year and utilize the USS Yorktown as a repelling surface.
In addition, in June, Patriots Point hosted first responders from South Carolina, California, Texas and Louisiana for the International Rescue and Emergency Care’s Technical Rescue competition. The Yorktown provided a unique setting while challenging teams’ technical rope rescue and emergency medical skills.
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