State Rep. Ron Robinson (R-Utica) this week welcomed Utica Fire Department Lieutenant Michael Ryan to the state Capitol as his guest for the Michigan House of Representatives’ annual Sept. 11 remembrance ceremony.

This year’s ceremony marked the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and brought together legislators and first responders from communities across Michigan to honor and remember the lives lost that day. The ceremony also recognizes Michigan’s dedicated first responders, public safety professionals and service members, while paying tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

As part of this year’s ceremony, Robinson paid special tribute to two firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty this year: Detroit Firefighter Patrick “Pat” Trout and U.S. Forest Service wildland firefighter Emily Barker, a Clinton Township native.

Trout, a 12-year veteran of the Detroit Fire Department assigned to Squad 4, died Jan. 5 in the line of duty. Trout was also a decorated U.S. Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient who served in the National Guard and Army Reserve before continuing his life of service as a firefighter protecting the people of Detroit.

Barker, a Clinton Township native, began her firefighting career as a volunteer firefighter while attending college and went on to battle wildfires across the country. She was serving with the U.S. Forest Service’s Rifle Helitack Crew when she and two fellow firefighters were killed June 27 while responding to the Knowles Fire in western Colorado.

“Today is about remembering those we lost 25 years ago, but it is also about honoring the men and women who continue to answer the call every single day,” said Robinson. “I was proud to have Lieutenant Ryan with me representing the Utica Fire Department, and deeply honored to recognize Patrick Trout and Emily Barker. Their lives remind us of the courage and sacrifice behind the uniform, and we will not forget their service.”