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Patriot Day - Remembering the 9/11 Attacks 20 Years Later


September 11 Anniversary Bio-One Remembers

Twenty years have passed, and yet the the surprise, anguish, horror, and disbelief of Tuesday, September 11, 2001 is forever imprinted in our minds and hearts. We united as a country and held each other close. As call centers were overwhelmed and cell services were drowning in volume, we desperately reserved hope for loved ones, team members, neighbors, and those we've never met. We lit candles, wrote songs and poems, and stood under an eerily engine-free sky.

First responders ran toward danger, many giving all. Twenty years later, their children have continued the tradition of service and sacrifice. [Two decades later, more children of 9/11 victims are joining the FDNY than ever before. - New York Daily News] 

Memorials and museums have risen with artifacts and stories of heroism. Most recently, the National Law Enforcement Museum re-opened with their Post - 9/11 Exhibit, showcasing 20+ artifacts that include airplane fragments from Flight 93, a steel beam from the World Trade Center, a limestone block from the damaged section of the Pentagon and part of the damaged food cart from Flight 93 when passenger Todd Beamer famously said, “Are you ready? OK. Let's roll.” 

Above all, we promised to #NeverForget. 

To honor the 20th Anniversary of 9/11, we asked Bio-One owners across the country to reflect on that fateful day. Below are their stories. 

National Law Enforcement Museum Post 9/11 Exhibit
Photo taken at the National Law Enforcement Museum Post-9/11 Exhibit.

I am a retired FDNY fireman. I was assigned to Squad 41 in the South Bronx. We lost everyone, all six, working that insane day. Me and the rest of the crew were down at the WTC site by 12:30 on 9/11. I worked down at the site for over 56 hours before we broke up into sections and teams. Long story short I was basically working at the WTC site for the next nine months. It seems like yesterday and way to many stories and close calls and everything to say in a post.

Owen McGovern, Bio-One owner in Eugene, Oregon

On September 11, 2001 I was in Tampa Florida at a training for work. Was in a conference room with glass walls and there was a tv on outside the room that I can see and saw the broadcast of the 2nd plane hitting. Also took us 4 days to get back to Connecticut because all flights were cancelled.

This year we are sponsoring the Southern Arizona Law Enforcement Foundation golf tournament on Sept 11 2021. 

David Scott, Bio-One owner in Tuscon, Arizona

I was in Lakewood, Ca just getting up and getting ready to go to school. My aunt worked in tower 2 so we were all franticly trying to call her. By the grace of God, she was not at work. She was at an OB appointment when it happened.

This year, we will be participating in a stair climb which is the number of stairs in the twin towers as well as participate in a golf tournament to raise money and awareness.

Rebecca Wallace, Bio-One owner in Flagstaff, Arizona 

I was in between classes in high school in NY, laughing with friends and not a care in the world. Little did I know the ever lasting effects this tragic event would’ve had on my life. Teachers turned on the news in class. Just as the second plane was hitting. Juan and I were in school (yes we went to HS together lol). And I knew then he was in it and would sacrifice to fight back for our country. Even 20 years later, feels like yesterday. He joined the Marine Corps. We lost many friends, even still having to say goodbye to this day. All from the events of that one very sad day.

It’s a very somber day for me. No events. Just spending time with my kids and Juan. There is the 2021 Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk in New York City Sunday, September 26, 2021, that I would love to do participate in. But, to be honest, going into the city scares me.

Very emotional day for all Americans. Hits my NY heart extra hard.

Nicole Morales, Bio-One owner in the Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania) 

I was at home in Denver with our 2 young sons, while Gregg Chiasson was in Manhattan on business. He had a flight later that day, which of course did not happen. We were unable to connect with each other for hours that day. This was frightening to me. Gregg's experience was live there in Manhattan. I'm so thankful that he was safe and made it home eventually.

Cheryl Chaisson, Bio-One owner in Denver, Colorado

I was on my way to Tulare Western HS driving in my 1987 Dodge Ram50 truck to work. I remember hearing about it on the radio and I was in disbelief. Needless to say, I had to get ready to teach 160 HS students math and chemistry throughout the day. I don’t know if I made the right choice, but I decided to treat it like a regular day and went about teaching. As a young 29 year old, the gravity of the situation didn’t hit me like most. Other than saying a few prayers throughout the day, I spent the day teaching the best I could and gave student an opportunity to ask questions if it came up.

Armand Amoranto, Bio-One owner in Oceanside, California

I was in Moscow Russia attending my first year of college. First time away from home. We had a math lecture and all of a sudden they turn on TV and we all stared in disbelief. We don’t know what is going on, we all thought it’s the beginning of world war 3. There were about 300 people in a room and we all stood up. Scary time. They sent us all home because no one including professors can concentrate but being scared on what’s next.

Viktoriya Gonzales, Bio-One owner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Bio-One Patriot Day September 11

Having been closed due to the pandemic, the National Law Enforcement Museum and Memorial (NLEMM) re-opened with the new Post-9/11 Exhibit: The Evolution of American Law Enforcement. On August 26, Bio-One was invited to a private opening reception to get a first-look and remember the brave men and women who ran toward danger 20 years ago. 

As described on the NLEMM websitethe Post-9/11 exhibit marks the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and honors the officers who rose to the challenge that day. This will be the first exhibition to focus on the significant changes to U.S. law enforcement that occurred in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

One of the most impactful displays in the exhibit is a wall of photos depicting all the members of law enforcement who died as a result of 9/11. As described by Police1.com, 72 officers killed on September 11, as well as 236 officers who died of illnesses contracted while working in the hazardous conditions at the WTC.

There are 20+ artifacts on display that include airplane fragments from Flight 93, a steel beam from the World Trade Center, a limestone block from the damaged section of the Pentagon and part of the damaged food cart from Flight 93 when passenger Todd Beamer famously said, “Are you ready? OK. Let's roll.” (Police1.com

Bio-One is a proud 2021 corporate partner of the museum. To learn more about the exhibit and how you can help preserve the history of law enforcement, visit NLEOMF.org.

Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Summary of Biohazard Work

Bio-One answers the call to help our community and remediate a variety of scenes. From hoarding, crime scene cleaning, or simply giving back, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do.

Here is this week's Weekly Wrap-Up.

INC. 5000

Inc. Magazine revealed that Bio-One, Inc. is No. 2,476 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses. Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. 

“We’re honored to be recognized in the Inc. 5000,” said Brian Brinegar, president of Bio-One Inc. “The ranking is a direct reflection of our business model, and Bio-One’s unique ability to consistently deliver essential services with care and compassion.”

Read more in our recent blog post announcing this exciting news. 

ORANGE COUNTY BLOOD DRIVE

In partnership with the Red Cross, over 25 blood donors signed up to give blood in Orange County at the Bio-One and TIP blood drive. 

According to the Red Cross, just one donation can save up to three lives! That's up to 75 lives saved from this selfless event. Truly an example of Help First. 

Cory Flores, Bio-One Owner, donating blood in Orange County

POST-9/11 EXHIBIT KICK-OFF EVENT

As a sponsor of the National Law Enforcement Museum and Memorial, we were thrilled to learn more about the Post-9/11 exhibit through a virtual kick-off event. 

Speakers pulled back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes conversations that go into crafting an exhibit about the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and life since.  To view the conversation, click the video below or visit the Bio-One Facebook page.

Stay tuned for more exiting updates as the opening gets closer!

National Police Week Badge

Bio-One, Inc. Donates 5,000 First Aid Kits and Pays Tribute to Fallen Officers

In recognition of National Police Week, May 9-15, Bio-One, Inc. will thank first responders by donating 5,000 first aid kits as part of their nationwide campaign #HelpFirst for First Responders. Throughout the week, Bio-One offices in 41 states will distribute the first aid kits, which include alcohol swabs, Advil, gloves, gauze pads, and an assortment of bandages.

Since 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. 

“As crime and trauma scene cleaners, Bio-One works closely with law enforcement across the country and National Police Week is a great opportunity to say thank you for their service and sacrifices,” said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, founder of Bio-One, Inc. “Our #HelpFirst campaign aligns with our motto, Help First, Business Second, and it is our hope that these kits will help officers and community members in the event of a minor medical emergency.”

As a 2021 corporate sponsor of the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Bio-One will also pay tribute to fallen officers during the virtual 33rd Annual Candlelight Vigil on May 13 at 8:00 p.m. The event will be broadcasted live on FacebookYouTube, and LawMemorial.org/CV.

“We are so thankful for Bio-One’s corporate partnership and their continued support of the Memorial Fund,” said Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund. “This partnership will further bolster the Memorial Fund’s mission of honoring America’s Law Enforcement, as well as provide support for the Museum’s upcoming exhibition opening in September. We are grateful for their commitment.”

Established in 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the fallen, telling the story of American law enforcement, and making it safer for those who serve. The Memorial Fund maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., which honors the names of all of the 22,611 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history.  

#HelpFirst for First Responders Bio-One First Aid Kits

Bio-One, Inc to Partner with Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund in Honoring American Law Enforcement. Commitment includes corporate partnership and support of future exhibits.

Bio-One, Inc., America’s first crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, has partnered with the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund to contribute to its mission in honoring American Law Enforcement. 

Bio-One Inc. operates in 41 states with over 100 locations and is committed to providing service in suicide and homicide clean up, hoarding remediation, homeless encampment clean-up, urine and feces removal, and more. With the motto, Help First, Business Second, Bio-One provides high-level decontamination and biohazard cleanup services while offering clients the privacy and compassion needed at difficult times.

“Bio-One has always been an avid supporter of first responders and the decision to align ourselves with the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was second nature,” said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, founder of Bio-One Inc. “As last responders, Bio-One works closely with law enforcement officers across the country to serve community members in their greatest time of need. We value their relentless dedication and sacrifices to support the community, and it’s our honor to support the history and the future of law enforcement.”

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund built and continues to maintain the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial – the nation’s monument to law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The Museum tells the story of American law enforcement through exhibits, collections, research and education.

“We are so thankful for Bio-One’s corporate partnership and their continued support of the Memorial Fund,” said Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund. “This partnership will further bolster the Memorial Fund’s mission of honoring America’s Law Enforcement, as well as provide support for the Museum’s upcoming exhibition opening in September. We are grateful for their commitment.” 

National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
Nick-Anthony Zamucen Quote National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Partnership
Bio-One National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Silver Partnership

About the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund

Established in 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the fallen, telling the story of American law enforcement, and making it safer for those who serve. The Memorial Fund maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., which honors the names of all of the 22,611 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history.