A 9/11 anniversary event was held Saturday in Knoxville. As part of the event, the Knoxville VFW post donated $500 each to the Knoxville Fire Department, Knoxville Township Rural Fire Department, Knoxville Police Department, and Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Commander Jon Short says the donations are to keep local emergency responders safe and effective.

“I’m a big supporter to fight suicide for veterans. We lose 22 veterans a day to suicide. They were part of 9/11, or after 9/11. Even the firefighters and paramedics that were part of 9/11 count into that 22 a day. Anything we can do to keep our first responders safe is what the VFW is for. Not just our veterans, but our first responders in Knoxville and Marion County. Hopefully our donations can help out wherever they need it, and we’ll make Marion County and Knoxville a safer place.”

Speeches were given by State Commander Michael Braman, Knoxville Mayor Brian Hatch, with a welcome by Knoxville Fire Chief Cal Wyman. A meal was served by the Knoxville Rotary Club. The KNIA/KRLS Lil’ Big Red Radio was on site, playing music and providing the sound equipment for the speeches.