Too Much Lightning...Concerned For Citizens
Storms with lightning forced Sheriff Robert Arnold to cancel the 9/11 Remembrance ceremonies Wednesday evening at the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office.
Sheriff Arnold told WGNS News . . .
Sheriff Arnold said that even though the formal ceremony had to be cancelled this year due to storms, we encourage everyone to remember citizens, emergency responders and soldiers who lost their lives after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorists’ attacks on U.S. soil.
“We will always remember those innocent victims and the emergency responders who died during the terrorists’ attacks,” Sheriff Arnold said. “We will always remember the soldiers who died defending America.”
Sheriff Thanks Sponsors
The sheriff was quick to thank all of the sponsors who covered all of the expenses. They include: A Soldier's Child, City of Murfreesboro's Rober bus, First National Bank of McMinnville furnished the inflatables, Swanson, WGNS Talk Radio, John Jones Real Estate, Screen Art, Volunteer Rutherford, Mid South Bank, SportsClips, Chick-fil-A, and Five Senses.
The Public Strolled The Displays In The Rain
The first part of the 9/11 reflection took place despite the periods of heavy rain. Umbrella carrying people walked from tent to tent looking at the displays. The larger displays were extremely popular, since they also offered a place to get out of the rain.
New Armoured Unit Displayed
You earlier heard on WGNS News that law enforcement officers in Rutherford County were given a new armoured vehicle to use on potentially dangerous calls. This massive unit will shield officers from 50-caliber weapons and has run-flat tires. The only concern is to be careful when driving over septic tanks. It is so heavy, there is a chance the weight will crush underground structures. It was funded by Homeland Security.
Despite the rain and lightning, there was still time for fellowship. (below, left photo) Former State Representative John Hood talks with Sheriff Arnold. (center photo below) And whenever there are rain puddles, they draw young boys like a magnet. (right photo below) Members of Rolling Thunder waited to be a part in the posting of the POW flag.
And with a momentary break in the weather, we were able to get a picture of the 9/11 Memorial that is located at the sheriff's office. The giant 3,000 pound steel I-beam is from World Trade Center 1, and it is positioned to face New York City and "ground zero". The pillars represent the emergency responders with the highest one for the firefighters who lost the most personnel. The remaining are police and paramedics.
