The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel held their 20th Anniversary 911 Memorial Ceremony and Honored local First Responder Heroes at Tampa Premium Outlet
To remember those who have served our Country and those who were lost protecting our Country, a new muraled wall was dedicated. To honor our local Law Enforcement Officers (who were Pasco residents) two plaques also were unveiled recognizing the sacrifices of Deputy Michael Magli, of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and Master Police Officer Jesse Madsen, of the Tampa Police Department, who both died in the line of duty.
Proceeds raised by the walk - run went to support scholarships for graduates from Pasco County high-schoolers, who intend to pursue careers as first responders.
The newly muraled walls that were dedicated to our Military heroes were reviewed by U.S. Army Colonel Peter Quinn, and World War II Veteran, Tom Dempsey who began his service in 1943 in World War II.
Chris Casella, a former New York City police officer was a witness to the 9/11 tragedy emceed the event with former New York City Fireman EMT Stephen Spelman who was at the Towers on September 11, 2001, at his side.
Marine Cpl. Ryan King, of Tampa, taps the bell signifying times on 9/11 when America was attacked. Chris Casella assists in the task. The bell was tapped once at various times for a moment of silence, for those who gave their lives to save others.
Pasco County Fire Rescue brought their special aerial apparatus Fire Trucks that made use of it’s large telescopic ladder to raise their huge 15 by 30 foot American Flag for the event.