Volunteers will work in memory of 9-11 victims

A handful of memorial events, remembering the thousands of victims of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, took place over the weekend in Camas and Washougal.

East County Fire and Rescue hosted an event where luminarias were lit, and the names of 343 firefighters who died on that tragic day were read.

The Camas and Washougal fire departments put together an impressive event that included a moment of silence and a touching speech by EMS Capt. Cliff Free.

At St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Camas, elected officials from Camas and Washougal and local police and fire departments were invited to a “Blue Mass” held in their honor.

The somber events were powerful, and no doubt emotional for attendees.

This coming weekend, the tributes will continue, but in very different settings.

Religious and community leaders representing organizations from Camas, Washougal and Vancouver are joining together on Saturday to take part in service projects in local parks in Camas and Washougal, at Share House in Vancouver and local assisted living centers.

All of this work, expected to be completed by hundreds of volunteers, will be done in memory of those who died in the terrorist attacks.

Such an incredible tragedy often leaves us questioning, “what can we do to help?” These volunteer projects aimed at making our local communities safer, happier and more beautiful places to live are a few small ways to do just that.

For additional information on Saturday’s community service projects, visit www.camaspostrecord.com.