In Honor and Remembrance of all the lives lost on Sept 11, 2001, Woodmen of the World dedicated a Flagpole to 700 locations around the country.  Each was dedicated to one person who died at the World Trade Center.  Ours was dedicated to Neil Lai who was 59 years old.  He left behind a wife, and two high school-aged children, a son and a daughter.  He was a very religious man and loved to listen to Gospel music and read the Bible.  The Plaque above was cemented in stone at the base of the Flagpole.

In attendance was the Mayor Jimmy Hankinson who lead the ceremony.  The Invocation was then lead by Rev. Charles W. Jones, Sr.

Introduction of Woodmen of the World Spokeman Jane Davis was done by Troy Ward our Rocky Ford Battalion Chief.

The Flag was then turned over to Jimmie Johnston and Larry Ward.  After they put it on the Flagpole it was then raised by Ethan Brown in memory of his brother Jeremy Brown who died earlier this year.  Jeremy Brown died earlier this year in the Line of Duty on May 14, 2002.

A moment of silence was then lead by Screven Co. Fire Dept. Chief Harvey Cryder.  The Firefighter's Prayer (Please scroll down to view the Firefighter's Prayer) was then recited by Beth Ward.  The Pledge of Allegiance by lead by the Rocky Ford Baptist RA's.  We were then lead by Erin Ward and Gillion Fowler and they played the National Anthem.

Our Democrat State Representative Bob Lane said a few words to everyone in memory of those who died.  Closing remarks were held by Town Mayor Jimmy Hankinson.  Refreshments were served by the Womens Club of Rocky Ford. Mayor Jimmy Hankinson (Far left), City Councilman Jimmie Johnston and Volunteer Fire Firefighter (Middle) and State Representative Bob Lane (Far right)

Firefighter's Prayer When I am called to duty, God, Whenever flames may rage: Give me strength to save some life Whatever be its age, Help me embrace a little child Before it is too late: Or save an older person from The horror of this fate. Enable me to be alert And hear the weakest shout, And quickly and efficiently, to put the fire out: I want to fill my calling, Lord, And give the best in me: To guard my every neighbor And protect their property And if according to Your will I have to lose my life, Please bless with Your protecting hand, All the loved ones in my life. In Memory of Jeremy Brown.