Page 30 - South Mississippi Living - October, 2015

COASTNOTES
A TIME TO
REMEMBER
Katrina 10th anniversary ceremony honors first responders
story by Lynn Lofton photos by James Edward Bates
As part of the Coast’s observance of the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, first responders were honored at a ceremony in Jones Park in Gulfport. Dignitaries on hand were former President George W. Bush, former Gov.
Haley Barbour, Gov. Phil Bryant and Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes.
“It takes sacrifice, courage and resolve to take on the critical role of a first responder during catastrophic events such as Hurricane Katrina,” Bush said to the crowd of approximately 1,000 people. “I can’t think of a better place to be than here honoring the sacrifice and service of so many.”
Bush remembered the 228 lives lost in Mississippi during the storm and applauded the area’s progress and recovery. “It’s important not to stay stuck in the past and to realize how positive the future can be,” he said.
The president also recalled the thousands of volunteers who aided the Coast in the recovery. Former Gov. Haley Barbour said there were 954,000 volunteers from all over the country who came to aid in the cleanup and recovery efforts in the first five years after Katrina. “What a great testimonial about our country,” he said, noting that 46 states also sent resources to the Mississippi Coast during that time.
Gulfport Fire Department Honor Guard and Pipes and Drums present colors.
Former President George W. Bush speaks during the First Responders Remembrance ceremony.
30 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • October 2015
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Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant comforts First Lady Deborah Bryant