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State Rep. Matthew Bierlein welcomed Tittabawassee Township Police Chief Dave Duffett for a special ceremony at the state Capitol on Wednesday in remembrance of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. The ceremony honors first responders and members of the military from communities throughout the state, including those who have died in the line of duty.

State Trooper Joel Popp was memorialized at the ceremony as names of fallen first responders over the past year were read. Trooper Popp, who served with the Michigan State Police’s Tri-City Post for four years, was struck and killed by a vehicle while assisting with a traffic stop on northbound I-75 near Birch Run on Jan. 24.

“The tragic death of Trooper Popp earlier this year underscores the dangers our first responders and military heroes face and the sacrifices they make every day they put on the uniform,” said Bierlein, of Vassar. “I was honored to have Chief Duffett along with me for this incredibly special ceremony, and I am thankful for the hard work and dedication of these brave individuals as they work tirelessly to protect us.”

Bierlein represents Tittabawassee Township as part of the 97th Michigan House District, which spans portions of Bay, Genesee, Saginaw and Tuscola counties.