SPRING BROOK TOWNSHIP, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Remembering 9/11: That's what dozens in Lackawanna County did during a Happy Hour for Heroes.
The event was to honor law enforcement members who battled on that tragic day and to support a local lieutenant in his battle with cancer.
Dozens of people gathered at High Bridge House to honor 9/11. They showed their support for those who served then and those serving now.
One is a local lieutenant battling stage four cancer.
Scranton Fire Lieutenant Kelly Hopkins stood before a crowd of people inside the High Bridge House in Spring Brook Township on 9/11 feeling grateful.
"These people were there for us and boy it turned around and came back for me," Hopkins said.
Hopkins is battling stage four esophageal cancer.
The 9/11 Happy Hour on Wednesday to recognize law enforcement members who served our nation on 9/11 was also a night to highlight Hopkins' health fight.
"After his service in this community in his life to live the rest of it happy, free, and without battling anything," said Event organizer and The Rob O'Donnell Show Host, Rob O'Donnell.
O'Donnell is now a host of the talk show, The Rob O'Donnell Show, but he's also a former New York City detective who served during 9/11.
Scranton firefighters pay tribute to 9/11 first responders
"It's the 8,401 day after 9/11 and every day is that plus one. Every day I carry those scars with me and I carry that pain with me," O'Donnell explained.
Support for Hopkins came from some of his closest friends and family and from fellow law enforcement members from other states who were also a part of that day 23 years ago.
"One thing about law enforcement, it's a huge family. No matter what part of the country you are in or whether you know that person or not, that's person's your family," said Retired Florida K9 Police Officer Ronald Torres.
Torres was active on 9/11 in South Florida. He met Hopkins for the first time on Wednesday, along with a New Jersey lieutenant who wished to remain anonymous.
"Another purpose, different battle, same purpose we fight for each other and I am honored to be here amongst people celebrating this day," the New Jersey lieutenant said.
"If I could grab the love from friendship, family, my kids and put it into a chemo bag I'd be cured tomorrow," Hopkins said.
The benefit to support Hopkins is on Sunday, September 15 at Montage Mountain Resort.
