State Rep. Brad Slagh (R-Zeeland) welcomed Zeeland Charter Township Fire Chief Brock E. Bruce to the Michigan House of Representatives’ annual 9-11 Memorial Ceremony in the House chamber on Thursday.

The ceremony included the ringing of a fire bell in memory of every first responder and public safety officer who died honorably in the line of duty throughout Michigan in the past year.

During this annual tradition, legislators invite first responders and members of the military from their communities to be their guests for the service.

“We simply can’t thank our first responders enough for their selflessness, especially those who gave their lives for their communities. It’s an honor and pleasure to have Chief Bruce here to extend my gratitude for his work and that of his team,” Slagh said. “As we reflect on the 24^th anniversary of the gut-wrenching attack on our nation, we’re reminded of the solidarity and patriotism that overcame our country in its wake. Coming together in our legislative chamber today, a space that is often so divided, was a unifying moment during a very dark week.”