Tears and heavy hearts: Hundreds gathered Friday for a candlelight vigil memorial at the Chesterton Thomas Centennial Park, in remembrance of those killed and missing in the Sept. 11 terrorist attack. Pictured top left is Chesterton Assistant Fire Chief Mike Orlich and his wife Julie, with their son Manney, 9. Julie’s teen daughter Betsy Smith led a Fireman’s Prayer during the event. The evening was filled with many prayers, songs and tributes to those who will always be remembered. The event was organized under the direction of Chesterton firefighter Rob Wesley.

Continuing in the top row left ot right: Chesterton Town Council President Rich Whitlow holds a candle while his daughter, Lauren, 3, looks on. North Porter County Commissioner John Evans and Laurie Wehner-Evans wave flags. An American flag flies from the CFD’s Tower One.

Row Two: Chesterton firefighters (from left to right) Chief Skip Highwood, Deputy Chief Kurt Keiser, Capt. Doug Shearer, firefighter David Laidlaw and 2nd Lieut. John Jarka give a salute. A crowd of residents, including several Boy Scouts, gather by the fire line listening to the Chesterton Middle School choir. In bottom right photo, Matt Murfitt, the son of Doug and Debbie Murfitt of Porter, holds a candle and sings. Chesterton Police Capt. Pete Duda reads letters from children who have written to the police and fire departments.

Bottom Row: Matthew Hampton, 4, the son of Robert and Karen Hampton of Chesterton, displays his patriotism. Jennifer and John Jarka stand behind their daughter, Brittany, during the ceremony. Gathered at the police line are friends (from left to right) Henry Looft of Valparaiso, Tom Lauerman and Rita of Chesterton and Lou Looft.

The vigil concluded with bagpipe renditions of several patriotic songs.

(Click on image to enlarge. Tribune photos by Dana Gilbertson)

Posted 9/24/2001