State Rep. Rachelle Smit (R-Martin) welcomed Allegan County Sheriff Frank Baker to the Michigan House of Representatives annual 9-11 Memorial Ceremony on the Capitol lawn on Wednesday.

The ceremony includes the ringing of a fire bell in memory of first responders and public safety officers who died honorably in the line of duty throughout Michigan in the past year.

During this annual tradition, legislators invite first responders and members of the military from their communities to be their guests for the service.

“It was an honor to welcome Sheriff Baker to attend today’s memorial ceremony,” Smit said. “We can’t thank our public safety officers and first responders enough for all they do to keep us safe. September 11 is a fitting time for this ceremony, as we continue to remember and honor the heroes who responded to the tragic attacks on America 23 years ago.”