On Sept. 11, 2021 the Rotary Club of Concord honored Concord’s firefighters and police officers with the Al Filipov Award for Outstanding Service and Courage at an outdoor service at Spaulding Management’s headquarters A well respected Concordian and Rotarian Alexander Filipov died in the crash of American Airlines Flight 11 in New York City 20 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001.
The program opened with the Reverend Dr. John Lombard’s reflection on the significance of 9/11 (Patriot Day) as a day of service and remembrance. He defined courage as “the ability to do something that frightens others”, noting that this concept separates those we honor today that stand in harm’s way when tragedy strikes a community and a nation.” Lombard concluded with the observation that all Concord’s first responders handle crises with a thoughtful command structure, organization and dignity. “Stronger Together.”
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Steve Levitsky welcomed everyone and presented an overview of the local and international work of Rotary.
Sharon Spaulding, chair of the event, reminded us that in the past six years we have presented the award to a deserving member of the Concord Police and Fire Departments. This year Departments could not select one member from their teams. They had dealt with the Covid pandemic and other critical situations as a team. Sharon then read a message from Loretta Filipov’s, (Al’s widow.)
Chief Tom Judge of the Fire Department accepted its award with words of encouragement from the Department. A donation to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation will be made in the Concord Fire Department’s name.
Chief Joseph O’Connor of the Police Department accepted its award, commenting on the courage and humanity of the Concord Police. A donation to the Jimmy Fund will be made in the Concord Police Department’s name.
Helen Halloran led a Moment of Silence before Steve Levitsky offered closing thoughts.
Thanks to Concord Teacakes for providing the refreshments and the Concord Flower Shop for providing the flowers. Thanks to the Departments for bringing the fire truck and police cars…they made a great background for group photos.
Thanks to hostess Sharon Spaulding and the many Rotarians who helped set up tents, a sound system and chairs, among other tasks.
A deeply moving remembrance on the 20th anniversary of 9-11.