Dover Honors 9/11 Victims and First Responders in City Council Ceremony

Photo byCity of Dover

DOVER, NH - In a heartfelt tribute to the victims and heroes of September 11, 2001, the Dover City Council held a remembrance ceremony on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. The event, marking the 23rd anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks, united city officials and first responders to reflect on the day’s lasting impact.

Mayor Robert Carrier opened the ceremony by welcoming members of Dover Fire and Rescue and the Dover Police Department to the podium. The somber event served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders and the profound effect that 9/11 continues to have on the Dover community.

Interim Fire Chief Perry Plummer, who spent 24 years with the department and previously served as New Hampshire’s director of Homeland Security, spoke about the importance of remembering the tragedy. "It's been 23 long years since America's darkest day," Plummer said. "I remember it like it was yesterday." He highlighted not only the lives lost but also the bravery of first responders, who saved over 20,000 people on that day before giving their own lives.

Police Chief William Breault read the names of the Dover residents who perished in the attacks: Kathleen Shearer, Michael Shearer, Douglas Stone, and David Scott Suarez. Their memory was honored through the words and actions of the ceremony.

Deputy Fire Chief Craig Chabot explained the significance of the bell-ringing tradition in firefighting history. "The signal was a sign of honor and respect for all firefighters who had made the ultimate sacrifice, and it's become a time-honored tradition," Chabot said. Following this explanation, Dover Fire and Rescue Division Chief Keith Irwin and Dover Police Capt. David Terlemezian performed the ceremonial tolling of the bell. The five measured dashes, repeated three times, echoed through the Council Chambers, paying tribute to the fallen first responders of 9/11 and the military members who have lost their lives in the War on Terror.

Chief Plummer concluded the ceremony by expressing his gratitude to the Dover police officers and firefighters for their continued service to the community. "The acts of selflessness will be building blocks for a better community and a better world," he said.

Mayor Carrier closed the remembrance by thanking everyone in attendance for their participation and for keeping the memory of 9/11 alive in their hearts.

The full ceremony can be viewed online at: Dover 9/11 Ceremony Video.

The information for this article was obtained from the Dover City Council ceremony held on September 11, 2024.