The ten year anniversary of the attacks on September 11th is less than a than a month away. Local organization, Operation Patriot is already marking the date to hold a special tribute.

“That day is tragic and it’s still fresh," said Nigel Heaton, Patriot Guard Riders Road Captain.

The group previewed its plan to create a field of honor on the lawn of Ontario Beach Park.
Sunday, president of the organization, Mark Rossney announced Mission: 343 will honor the firefighters that lost their lives that day with a moving memorial.

“Three-hundred and forty three firefighters died in the twin towers on September 11th,” said Rossney.

Each firefighter will be honored with an American flag and their name tag attached to its flagpole.

“To be a part of it and the benefit it is going to be, it’s a deep feeling. It’s an honor,” said Heaton.

The flags will be sponsored and will spread across the park. Mission: 343 will also be one of the only fields of its kind within 100 miles of Rochester and Monroe County.

Money raised will benefit the Finger Lakes Regional Burn Association and programs specifically for firefighters injured in the line of duty.

“Anytime you get a hero that’s running into a burning building while you’re running out and they get injured while doing so, we need to help them,” said Rossney.

Organizers say they hope the memorial will bring honor and healing on a day to remember.

“There are brave men and women right now putting their lives on the line to fight for our freedoms in America to keep us safe. This will be just one more reminder of why we have to keep them in our thoughts and prayers and keep up the good fight,” said Eric Carlston, Monroe County Abate President.

The moving memorial will be on display for six days starting September 6th. If you want to sponsor a flag or want more information about Mission:343, click on the link provided. Mission: 343