Members of Miami's Urban Search and Rescue Task Force Two and Miami Firefighters were honored at a special 9/11 anniversary benefit Saturday evening in Midtown at which the donation a well-known commemorative oil painting, "America the Beautiful," was unveiled.
The painting, by New York-born pop artist Michael Perez, was begun and completed in the days following the terrorist attacks in New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
It features the face of a woman, with the World Trade Center reflected in her eye and a single tear on her cheek.
According to Perez, the painting is a sign of hope to all that see it.
"She has been displayed at countless galas to benefit families and the victims of the September 11th tragedy," he said, "and has helped raise thousands of dollars in support of the heroes of our community who risk their lives every day to keep us safe."
The event was a special tribute to those from Miami who responded on September 11, 2001, with the painting serving as a poignant depiction of that infamous day. When the bell rang, close to 100 Miami firefighters answered the call, risking their own lives to aid in the search for victims that quickly turned to an effort in recovery.
"This is absolutely amazing," said Capt. Joseph Zahralban. "No words to describe."
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"To have this donated to us and the community its great," said Lt. Charles McDermott.
"America the Beautiful" will be on display at Perez's Midtown Gallery. It will then be hung at the headquarters of Miami Fire Rescue.
