Frontline heroes praised anew in ‘We Will Never Forget’ event

Frontline heroes were applauded for their heroic actions during the “We Will Never Forget: Field of Heroes” ceremony commemorating the tragic events of the 9/11 attacks that happened 23 years ago last Tuesday afternoon at the American Memorial Park’s Court of Honor.

Tan Holdings Community Relations vice president Cathy Attao-Toves acknowledged the frontline responders during her remarks. She emphasized the importance of these heroes in ensuring the safety, protection, health, and freedom of regular civilians.

“These heroes are the lifeline, ensuring that each of us, regular civilians, can experience life’s blessings of safety, protection, health, and freedom. May I ask all our community heroes, our law enforcement officers, our first responders, our military, our veterans, and healthcare utilities personnel to please stand up. Let’s all give them all around of applause,” said Attao-Toves.

The Field of Heroes event, according to Attao-Toves, is part of the Tan Siu Lin Foundation’s efforts to give back to the community, particularly in the commemoration of the tragic events of 9/11. The event started in 2016, showcasing the bond of unity and strength of the people in the Commonwealth.

“It is one that is close to the heart of our CEO and president of Tan Holdings, Mr. Jerry Tan, along with Tan Holdings executives, corporation, and affiliates to commemorate the tragic events of 9/11 and the heroic deeds we saw, learn, and read to continue to tug at our hearts,” added Attao-Toves.

She also reflected on the efforts of responding, recovering, and healing from the events of 9/11, which took time and lives. She drew parallels to current global events, such as the fight against terrorism and natural disasters like super typhoons Soudelor and Yutu and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Attao-Toves also discussed the positive outcome of the pandemic in raising awareness about mental health and the importance of seeking help.

“The silver lining in the pandemic was that it created the platform to talk about mental health, how it’s okay not to be okay, and to provide support services and resources to everybody, regardless of the demographic,” said Attao-Toves.

In addition, the 24-hour Mental Health Hotline (988) and pressing 1 for the special line for veterans were introduced by Attao-Toves as a resource for those struggling with life’s challenges.

Moreover, she expressed her appreciation to public and private partners who have supported the event and specifically thanked the National Park Service, the Tinian Mayor’s Office, and the Rota Mayor’s Office for their gracious support.

Meanwhile, U.S. Army retired lieutenant colonel and Education Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Camacho, who served as the guest speaker, recalled the immediate deployment of 14 individuals from the American Red Cross-NMI Chapter to respond to the 9/11 attacks.

“I was in Virginia at that time, really kind of looking at this. But I did not know that soon and immediately after the attack, we have deployed 14 folks here out of our CNMI to come and respond at ground zero in New York, or in Washington, D.C., at the Pentagon, or even out in the crash-landing field of Flight 93. So, I’m really grateful that while I was away, still, there was a lot of things happening here to respond to that some very tragic event that our nation had to go through,” he said.

Camacho also highlighted the role of the frontline heroes as he gave emphasis on their uniforms.

“Commissioner of DPS is here, commissioner of Fire (Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services) is here, and a lot of others who wear the uniform and ensure that we have people out there who respond each and every day to the call of our community for a safe and secure CNMI where we live, work, and play,” he said.

Camacho also mentioned the importance of remembering those who have fallen and the need to support first responders who return home mentally exhausted and traumatized. The ceremony’s goal of raising awareness and funds for mental health and wellness programs for first responders was also reiterated.

Camacho shared his personal experiences as a combat veteran, including multiple combat deployments and the loss of comrades. The emotional impact of losing comrades to suicide was described as particularly difficult as he emphasized the importance of counselling for those experiencing mental health issues.

The commissioner called for community participation in the alliance to help mental health and suicide prevention efforts.

The welcome remarks was delivered by AMP national park ranger Brooke Nevitt, wherein she mentioned that the American Memorial Park in the Northern Marianas holds significance for events that transpired during World War II. The park serves as reminders of the nation’s rich history and natural heritage.

As she remembers the tragic events of 9/11, Nevitt expressed her gratitude to local first responders, active-duty military, veterans, and those who made sacrifices.

The “We Will Never Forget: Field of Heroes” event was successfully held despite the event being postponed twice due to storms. It was raining that afternoon, a reason why the Freedom Walk was not done, instead a group photo was held in front of the American Memorial Park.

Department of Public Safety Sgt. Patrick Arriola served as the emcee, music was provided by Save the Music-CNMI Foundation including the singing of the national anthem. Invocation was delivered by Hanom Lina ‘la Assembly of Tanapag pastor Fred Fatialofa.

The posting of colors were done by CPA Ports police officer Alupiang Tilipao, Department of Corrections officer Pius Yaroitemal Jr., Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting’s Don Brennan, and DFEMS’ Jamaal Mresbang.

A 21-gun salute by DPS, emergency vehicles’ sirens honor tribute, benediction, and honor guard’s retiring of colors concluded the event.