Published September 11. 2013 05:39PM
In prelude to the 12th year anniversary of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, first responders from all over Schuylkill County were treated to an appreciation picnic Sunday on the grounds of the Simon Kramer Cancer Institute in New Philadelphia.
A total of 2,977 people died from the attacks that day.In addition, over 2,000 first responders were also injured in the attacks.The event was free to all Schuylkill County firefighters, police officers, paramedics, coroners, priests, fire police and civil servants.In addition to free food and drinks, first responders and their families were treated to entertainment by the Frank and Sam Jam band, games, dunk tank, bounce house and other activities.Co-organizer Katherine Schuck and "Doc" David Moylan (who serves as Schuylkill County's Coroner) praised volunteers and businesses that helped to sponsor the event.
ANDREW LEIBENGUTH/TIMES NEWS First responders socializing during the appreciation event, are, from left, Schuylkill County Red Cross volunteers Pauline Manbeck, Patty Daley, deputy coroner and Shenandoah Mayor Andrew Szczyglak, SSgt. Matt Frey of New Ringgold, and the Rev. Luke Anderson of St. Mary's Monastery in New Ringgold.