On Friday, Somerville residents, policemen, firemen,
and elected officials joined to honor those lost to the tragic fate of
September 11. They came together at the Cedar Street entrance to the
Community Bike Path to commemorate the day our nation lost thousands of
innocent lives. The grey skies set a somber tone and while the mood was
heavy, it wasn't a burden that was unwelcome. It was an honor to carry
a candle and hold each other up under the weight of the memory of lost
loved ones and brave servicemen and women.

This seventh annual
memorial followed the community path behind the bagpipes, played
elegantly by Patrick McDonnell, who has played them each September at
this event. The colorguard led a group of police and firemen with Old
Glory held high. Somerville residents turned out to carry candles and
march alongside Mayor Curtatone in quiet remembrance.

As
candles were lit and the march began, people quietly shared their
stories of 9/11, where they were that day, who they knew that passed
away, and why they came to march. As we walked, crowds gathered
alongside the bike path, many looking down in prayer, some crying, and
several saluting. The procession made its way into Davis Square and
onto the main median where a permanent memorial to September 11 stands.
Mayor Curtatone said a few words, reminding all who had gathered that
this was the spot where the people of Somerville gathered on that
tragic day. "We are here to continue that tradition, to say our thanks
to the Fire Department and the Police Department and all others who
serve their community." He urged all to remember those who have been
lost and carry on their spirit, their inspiration, and their
dedication.

The final moments of the memorial included a
prayer led by Betty Walker, Spiritual Leader at the Somerville Unity
Church of God, and a blessing by Judy Kohatsu that encouraged all to
remember the strength of the men and women who fought to save lives on
that September day, and to "go with that strength and do good."