This fall on September 11, Orcas Island Fire and Rescue will hold its annual 9-11 memorial ceremony at the Eastsound Fire Station at 8:45 a.m. At noon that day the department will celebrate the completion of Deer Harbor fire station, number 24 with an open house for the community.
“This year will be a special ceremony to observe the 10th anniversary of the attack that cost the lives of over 3000 people, including 343 firefighters,” said fire chief Mike Harris.
Orcas Island Fire and Rescue will observe the decade that has passed by unveiling the centerpiece of its new memorial garden dedicated to remembering all those who died that day: a chunk of steel I-beam from the World Trade Center’s twin towers.
Before and after the service, the artifact will be on display inside the fire station.
“Please come pay your respects during business hours – from 9 a.m to 5 p.m. – any day,” said Harris.
By the end of 2012, the department hopes to have enough donations to erect a permanent memorial incorporating the beam.
The Deer Harbor fire station serves the Deer Harbor and Spring Point area, which is the second largest community on the island. The nearly 4000 square foot, two story building replaces a 500 square foot leased building built next door in 1972. The extra room will accommodate a 2000 gallon tanker truck and an ambulance in addition to its new WASP fire engine.
Built by Wellman & Zuck contractors, it was designed to look like a barn by longtime resident Bill Trogdon and his son Ben. The new station also features unfinished room for future sleeping quarters upstairs.
Paid for by the 1999 levy to “improve stations, equipment and volunteer benefits” the station represents the completion of the 2005 strategic plan.
“Please join us for a tour and refreshments as we dedicate this new facility that will be a part of Orcas for many, many years to come,” said Harris.
