September 18, 2001

PRESS RELEASE

To: Newsroom

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer

Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

Fire and Police Chiefs Call Press Conference to Announce Memorial Service

Tomorrow, Shreveport Police Chief Jim Roberts and Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran will hold a joint press conference at 3:00 p.m. in the Mayor’s conference room at Government Plaza, 505 Travis Street to announce details for an upcoming Firefighter and Police Memorial Service to be held at Shreveport’s Municipal Auditorium on Tuesday, September 25 at 5:30 p.m.

On Tuesday, September 11, 2001 our Nation suffered a great loss at the hands of what we now know was an unprovoked and despicable terrorist attack. Along with the thousands of innocent civilians that were killed, the reports coming from New York are that upwards of 300 firefighters have been lost. Likewise, the police are reporting more than 60 officers missing or dead. These were our brothers and sisters and the fire and law enforcement communities of Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Bossier City, and Bossier Parish are mourning their loss and are praying for their families.

"It is out of deep respect and admiration for those that gave their life trying to help others following the attack on our country and for our own members, who are hurting, that we do this," said Cochran.

The Fire and Police Memorial Service will be open to all area public safety organizations including fire, police, and EMS agencies, as well as the public. Some of those scheduled to preform at the service are the Shreveport Symphony and Centenary Choir. ###