Hello to all..
Many of us recall the horrific events of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks like it were yesterday and the impact that it had on all of us. The shock and horror of the incident and the people that were killed. The recovery efforts of first responders during the days, weeks and months after the incident. The support Amateur Radio Operators provided for several weeks after the attack through ARESMAT (ARES Mutual Aid Teams) to New York City and other attack sites and how it altered the course of the country and the world.
As we approach the 10th anniversary of these attacks on Sunday September 11th 2011, I’m sure many of us just like other American citizens will recognize this in some way, perhaps attending a 9/11 memorial events in their local area or simply watching the memorial events on television. Many of us have heard of the ‘specific, credible but unconfirmed’ threat of an attack or attacks on the country on Sunday.
The Department of Homeland Security has issued a couple of press releases regarding 9/11. See the links below for details:
http://www.dhs.gov/ynews/releases/20110909-napolitano-urging-public-vigilance.shtm
http://www.dhs.gov/ynews/releases/20110908-statement-press-secretary-matt-chandler.shtm
As we commeorate this anniversary, we remind Amateur Radio Operators in their areas to maintain the same vigilance as other citizens. We also advise that people take a look at their go kits and battery operated equipment and make sure it is ready just in case its required in the event, as unlikely as it may be, that an attack on the homeland occurs. These are the same preparedness steps we take for severe weather, Hurricane Irene, and other situations but its worth reiterating again as we approach the 10th anniversary of September 11th. If an incident occurs, monitoring of local ARES/SKYWARN and RACES repeaters should occur and nets would be called up as required to check in people that are monitoring and provide information on the incident and any requests from agencies that could occur in that scenario.
We appreciate everyone’s vigilance and we hope everyone commemorates and remembers what occurred 10 years ago on September 11th and that it will be a time of rememberance for all of us and no incidents occur. Thanks to all for their support!
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert Macedo (KD1CY)
ARES SKYWARN Coordinator
Eastern Massachusetts ARES Section Emergency Coordinator
Home Phone #: (508) 994-1875 (After 6 PM)
Home/Data #: (508) 997-4503 (After 6 PM)
Work Phone #: 508-346-2929 (8 AM-5 PM)
Email Address: rmacedo@rcn.com
http://ares.ema.arrl.org
http://www.wx1box.org