9/11 Ceremony 
September 11, 2009
A ceremony was held Friday at Herkimer County Community College to remember and honor all those affected by the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The program began with presentation of the colors by the VFW Post 4915 and Vietnam Veterans of America Color Guard and the National Anthem sung by HCCC student Joelle Holk of Mohawk. Speakers included HCCC student Christine Brockway of Ilion, HCCC Professor Timothy McLean, and Mimi Martin, of Mohawk, whose husband Marine Sgt. Shawn Martin was killed in action on June 20, 2007, while serving in Iraq. Martin said “Today is a day to remember how September 11, 2001 changed each of our lives.” She asked that everyone remember those who were killed, as well as their families and friends who “are forever feeling the effects of their deaths.” Daniel Murphy, Dean of Academic Affairs, and Ryan Damon , HCCC student from St. Johnsville, performed Amazing Grace on the bagpipes, and James Traglia, a music teacher at Herkimer Central School, played TAPS. In her closing remarks, President Ann Marie Murray said, “Our presence here today is our statement. We are grateful and we will remember.” Pictured is HCCC student Joelle Holk, of Mohawk, singing the National Anthem at Herkimer County Community College’s 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.