Commemorative event underscores Boston's resilience on the anniversary of the marathon explosion
In a moving tribute held at the Hynes Convention Center, survivors of the Boston Marathon bombing, their families, friends, law enforcement officers, first responders, and political leaders gathered to commemorate the anniversary of the tragic event. The event, attended by over 2,000 people, including 40 members of the MIT community, was marked by moving speeches and musical performances by the Boston Pops and Boston Children's Chorus.
Vice President Joe Biden, who spoke at the Institute's memorial service for slain MIT Police Officer Sean Collier last year, praised the tribute he heard today in Boston, calling it unprecedented. Biden addressed the survivors, expressing his admiration for their resilience and courage. He said, "You have survived and soared, and you are inspiring to people across the country who have suffered tragedy."
Adrianne Haslet-Davis, a dancer who lost a leg in the bombing, expressed her gratitude for the new friendships she has made and thanked a team led by MIT's Hugh Herr for designing her new prosthetic limb. Haslet-Davis encouraged a "Day of Shared Work" where people come together to collaborate and support each other in the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings. She also emphasised that the anniversary of the bombing should not just be a day of remembrance, but also a day of action.
Patrick Downes, another survivor, spoke about the caring and selflessness that flowed out after the event and expressed his gratitude for the connections made with fellow survivors. Downes, who lost a leg as a result of the bombing and was newly married at the time of the 2013 marathon, expressed his appreciation for the solidarity and support shown by Boston.
Governor Deval Patrick celebrated the care and service that Bostonians have shown each other in the aftermath of the bombings, stating that they are one community. Tom Menino, Boston's former and longest-serving mayor, spoke at the event and recalled last year's events, receiving a warm standing ovation.
Haslet-Davis believes that this day should be a day when everyone works together to make the world a better place. In his closing remarks, Biden declared that the solidarity and support shown by Boston have made the city the face of America's resolve, for the whole world to see. He concluded by saying, "We are America. We respond, we endure, we overcome, and we own the finish line."
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