As part of Patriot Day observations at Seward County Community College, the campus veteran’s group sponsored a free hamburger cookout for students, team members, and first responders from Liberal and the surrounding area. Liberal Mayor Joe Denoyer spoke at the gathering, and was presented with a fireman’s hardhat, naming him honorary lieutenant for the Baker, Tyone, and Turpin (Okla.) and Liberal Fire Departments.

The midday event was a way for the community to reflect on the events of 9/11 — when most students at SCCC were just infants or toddlers — and the ongoing sacrificial service of first responders everywhere.

College president, Dr. Ken Trzaska, spoke briefly about the courage required to move forward, particularly in times of crisis, loss, and uncertainty.

“We are all in this together, and we are thankful for the sacrifices made by so many,” he said.

Photos above, from upper left-hand corner, clockwise:

• Fire trucks park into the center campus green of SCCC for a Patriot Day cookout.
• Liberal Fire Department member Erving Altimirano leads the line through the complimentary lunch provided by Great Western Dining and SCCC.
• Guests gather in the shade of the Shank Humanities Building amphitheater area.
• Dr. Ken Trzaska speaks at the Patriot Day lunch.
• SCCC Automotive Business instructor Cody Pickering, and Compressed Natural Gas instructor Dave Ratzlaff move through the lunch line.
• Pickering presents Liberal Mayor Joe Denoyer with a helmet naming him honorary lieutenant for four area fire departments.
• Liberal Police Department officers join SCCC students in the lunch line.
• Guests stand for the National Anthem, in front of a display of flags for the armed forces of the United States.