Starke County citizens turned out to remember and reflect during September 11th ceremonies in North Judson and Knox. At Knox, WKVI sponsored a service at the Knox High School Football Field.
The day was arranged by Gene Blastic, and featured talks by Ted Hayes, Tom Berg and Paul Mathewson. Mae Crider provided three patriotic songs, and Pastors Ed Hasnerl, Paul Begley, Jim Pradtke, and James Adcock added spiritual messages.
Harold Welter was the Master of Ceremonies.
Mr. Blastic, who did so much work arranging the day, talked about the day after the ceremonies.
“We just couldn’t let this day go wihtout remembering and encouraging ourselves to not forget this occasion,” said Blastic. “I was just happy to work with you guys. You guys are great at WKVI and it all just came together very well. I’m very happy.”
One of the presenters, Ted Hayes, said “Starke County remembered.”
“I think Starke County did its best today to remember and reflect on 9/11,” said Ted.
“It was great to see so many people here and I hope our citizens and fellow citizens in New York know that we’re thinking of them and praying for them,” added Blastic. “To me, that’s very important and I hope they get a little word that we’re out here thinking about them.”
Paul Mathewson, the new EMS Director in Starke County, remembered the firefighters and emergency rescue workers who lost their lives on that day. Ted Hayes said emergency, fire, and police around the area would have responded the same as their New York brothers and sisters.
“Absolutely,” said Mathewson. “Just look at the turnout today. We had people show up who are part of the EMS and fire department. We had people show up who are in the military and normal civilians. As EMS, fire and police, we all have steady training regiments and we’re ready for anything that would come. It’s a great community to raise kids in and to be a part of and to know that we can really come together and be a good team.”
As Ted said, “God Bless the U.S.A.”
