Manor Township firemen Jacob McMaster (left) and Bill Shrum sit in front of their rescue unit, lights flashing, and a temporary memorial of flags and signs at the Riverside intersection to remind motorists to pause to remember those who died on September 11, 2001.
by David Croyle
Ceremonies have marked Patriot Day at all three crash sites from September 11, 2001 in Shanksville, PA, the Pentagon in Washington, DC, and at Ground Zero in New York City.
But in Manor Township, members of the local Station 160 fire department decided to display a memorial at the Riverside intersection to remind motorists traveling Route 66 of the meaning of this day.
For Jacob McMaster, the day holds deep meaning for him as a Manor Township fireman.
“I started doing this four years ago when I joined the fire hall. So every year we make up a different sign. Every year it changes, but we try to keep it the same location and the same reasoning - to pay our respects to those who lost their lives on this day back then.”
For McMaster, it is more than just a publicity stunt.
“I figured I would pay my respects. They made the ultimate sacrifice so this is the least we could do - just sit out here for a little bit and pay our respects to them and all the people who are coming by.”
Bill Shrum is also a volunteer fire fighter for Manor Township. He believes the high visibility is a key to not let people forget what happened 14 years ago.
“It’s a busy part of the roadway. (So we) come out here and sit and wave to everyone that goes by.”
McMaster said that the public has been very receptive.
“They’ve been honking, waving. We’ve had a couple people stop and take pictures. It’s been pretty good so far.”
Thank you, Manor Township, for helping all of us commemorate this day.