Brian Schafer Takes Part in 9/11 Ceremony at Soldier Field by Jaime Schafer
On September 11, 2011, Brian Schafer (First Shift Senior Electrician) was honored to take part in the Flag unfurl- ing ceremony at the Chicago Bears game. His itinerary included a 7:45AM arrival at the Chicago Police Headquar- ters to be shuttled over to Soldier Field for rehearsal. Once rehearsal was finished, they were supplied with food and refreshments. They were also given field passes to use until 11:25AM to roam around the field. Even though he’s not a Bears fan, and is a die hard Cowboys fan, he was impressed with the Chicago players. Those guys are HUGE! There were players, coaches and officials, along with many other people that walked up to him to shake his hand and thank him for his service. When it was time for them to bring out the 1100 pound flag to the field, the entire crowd was chanting USA, USA, over and over. Once he was in place for the unfurling, the Falcons players and coaches jumped right in to assist, and anyone that may have been watching from home at that time would have seen him on television standing between two massive Atlanta Falcons players, #94- Peria Jerry and #55 – John Abraham. Once the ceremony con- cluded, he was given a ticket and was able to watch his very 1st NFL game at a stadium. It was, by far, one of the most exciting and memorable days he will ever have the honor to be a part of. Editors note: Brian was one of three local firemen receiving the honor of participating in this ceremony. Senator Mark Kirk’s office started the recognition ceremony and wanted to include up to 120 of the firefighters that were deployed to Hurricane Katrina as well as many of the Wounded Warriors. Brian submitted his name as well as oth- ers from MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System which is the new and improved way for fire departments to call for additional resources during an emergency situations) Division #38 of Lee County. All three were picked from Lee County to be part of the ceremony. The other two firefighters were Jeff Milton of the Paw Paw Fire Depart- ment and Jesse Arjes with the Dixon City Fire Department.
6 Crest Ink October, November & December 2011
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