LANSING — Rep. Jim Townsend (D-Royal Oak) hosted Cary Thompson, a firefighter with the Royal Oak Fire Department, at a ceremony at the state Capitol yesterday commemorating the terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C., on Sept. 11, 2001. The event honored the memory of those who lost their lives in the attack and the first responders who stand ready to help their neighbors in any emergency.

“Even the soot and ash of a great tragedy couldn’t diminish the courage that shone through when police and firefighters selflessly rushed in to save lives,” Townsend said. “Our communities are blessed to have people like Cary Thompson and all those he serves with who protect their neighbors. It is an honor to thank him and all of our first responders.”