Gurnee honors first responders lost on Sept. 11

More than 200 people turned out on a sunny Sunday afternoon in Gurnee to honor the firefighters and police officers who lost their lives 13 years ago in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States.

The Exchange Club of Gurnee held its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony at the Viking Park Bandshell.

The solemn occasion featured the posting of colors by the Police & Fire Color Guard, the Great Lakes Navy State Flag Unit and guest speakers including Gurnee Mayor Kristina Kovarik and Navy Capt. William Bulis.

"I am proud to be here to honor those who work diligently to serve and protect us every day," Kovarik said.

The ceremony included presentation of the Exchange's Firefighter of the Year award to Battalion Chief James Pellitteri, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year to Tom Woodruff and Civilian of the Year to Heather Collins.

"It's a great honor," Pellitteri said. "I believe firefighters all over the United States have firefighter of the year moments, and I was just blessed to have it awarded to me this year. Firefighters all over deserve this."

The solemn event concluded with the Gurnee Fire Department performing the bell ceremony for firefighters and police officers lost in the line of duty.