Reflection Service Held For Victims Of Amtrak Train Derailment
By Andrew Kramer
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- More than a dozen city, state and federal officials, along with first responders gathered Sunday at the site of last Tuesday's fatal Amtrak train derailment for a special service.
Lauren Hart sang God Bless America just before officials from Mayor Michael Nutter to Governor Tom Wolf spoke at the same location where eight people lost their lives and hundreds of others were injured.
The Mayor was quick to point out this was a service of reflection and not a memorial service:
"It was our collective view that before a train could pass this way. We must take a moment -- a human moment -- to recognize what has happened."
Governor Wolf thanked Mayor Nutter and all who helped, including first responders and neighbors:
"I think we can learn some things about life, --the sadness, the sad part of it, but also the profound goodness that exists in each of us."
Amtrak President and CEO Joseph Boardman got emotional when talking about the tragic event:
"Last Tuesday, was the worse day for me as a transportation professional that I had."
U.S. Secretary of t Anthony Foxx said those that lost their lives would not be forgotten:
"We will nevertheless spend the rest of our careers attempting to honor the memory of your loved ones. We will honor them by making sure this never happens again."
Foxx also praised Mayor Nutter, saying he has not only been Philadelphia's mayor since Tuesday, but America's Mayor.