Welcome to Independent Tribune Skip directly to: our Keyword Search, Section Navigation, Content.

independenttribune.com - Independent Tribune

HomeNewsEntertainmentSportsLifestylesOpinionCommunityWeather Online Tools Jobs | Real Estate | Shopping | Classified

Church honors military, first responders

By Robin L. Gardner | Independent Tribune

Published: July 1, 2009

CONCORD — King's Way Baptist Church in Concord celebrated Freedom Appreciation Day on Sunday, honoring the men and women who protect the country and freedom at home and abroad.

"It's a day about our country," Membership Pastor David Snow said. "It's a day about red, white and blue. It's a day about symbols."

The church honored military and first responders. Representatives from the Concord Police Department, Concord Fire Department, Kannapolis Police Department, Concord Police K-9 unit, Cabarrus County EMS, American Red Cross, Concord Fire Department stations 5 and 9, were among those honored.

As representatives from these groups stood, the congregation applauded with gratitude.

"As best as I know how to do, I want to let you know how much we appreciate you as a church in this community," Snow said. "We support you; we stand with you, and stand behind you. We have your back. Thank you for honoring us with your presence today."

Among those in the audience was Tim Hayes, a former Charlotte Mecklenburg EMT.

In January 2003, while working an accident on Interstate 77, a tractor-trailer slammed into the scene, and Tim's legs were severed above his knees.

Ella Mae Small, a Concord City Council member, and Brig. Gen. Bob Kye, were also in attendance.

A scholarship was awarded in the name of Matthew Edenburn, a young member of the church who was volunteer firefighter. Matthew lost his life in December 2007, in a car crash.

The family created a scholarship in his name. It was awarded for the first time to high school senior, Aaron Russell.

The church also invited Sujo John, a 9/11 World Trade Center survivor, who told his story of that day, and how he made it out of the towers from the 81st floor.

Dr. Bradley Price, senior pastor at King's Way Baptist, summed up the feelings of appreciation to those heroes who protect and serve us daily for the entire congregation.

"We are free because of the brave," Price said.