Avon Volunteer Fire Department commemorates 25th Anniversary of 9/11
Updated: Sep 21
On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, the Avon Volunteer Fire Department held a somber service remembering those who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.The Sept. 11 event was the department’s 24th annual memorial commemorating the event.
The morning memorial service included the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, a moment of silence and a heartfelt remembrance from Heather Toyen, sister of Amy Toyen. Amy Toyen, who grew up in Avon and was at 1 World Trade Center for a conference on that fateful day. Amy was known for her meticulous organization, kind spirit and community outreach. At the time, she was engaged to Jeffrey Gonski.
"We grew up in Avon, attended all of the Avon public schools and I continue to call Avon home," said Heather Toyen, who also talked about how the country came together following that awful day. "Growing up, Amy enjoyed drawing painting, playing the piano and doing well in school. After graduation Amy attended Bentley University where she majored in business, and she loved her marketing job and living in the Boston area.
"Amy had an infectious smile and was kind to everyone. Although described as spunky she was reserved and thoughtful in her actions. Amy was meticulous and organized. As a child she cleaned up her toys when she was finished playing and as an adult she stacked her silverware perfectly one on top of the other.
"Amy loved New York City and our family trips to see Broadway shows or shopping trips with our dad. It is difficult to imagine the skyline of the city she loved so much has been changed forever. We all remember where we were 25 years ago and it is a reminder of how fragile life is. I challenge you to be kind, be gentle, be nice to each other. We ask that you remember that horrible events happened that day. Please share stories with younger generations so our loved ones will never be forgotten. Hug your children hug your parents embrace every moment you are given. Life can be changed in an instant when you least expect it."
The ceremony also included reflections from guest speakers John Carmon, president of Carmon Community Funeral Homes, and Carmine Centrella, a retired career firefighter, paramedic and fire department chief officer who responded to Ground Zero with members of the UConn Fire Department Technical Rescue Team following the September 11 attacks.
At the time of the attacks, Carmon was president of the National Funeral Directors Association. He organized volunteers to assist with recovery efforts in New York and spoke with national media about the wave of loss experienced across the country. Centrella participated in rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero and later served in leadership roles in homeland security and emergency-management planning at the regional and state levels.
Father George Roberts of St. James Parish in Farmington, who serves as a fire service chaplain, offered the Firefighter's Prayer.
Retired Avon Police Officer Sue Kassey read her memorial poem, accompanied by Sing United International. The Avon High School Camerata Singers, under the direction of Andrew Brochu, performed several songs. Additionally, singer Nathaniel Hintz performed Alan Jackson's Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning), and saxophonist Mike Thrower performed Amazing Grace.
Photos by John Fitts
