Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

In light of recent community tragedies, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne would like to extend its sincere appreciation to all first responders and community members who selflessly gave their assistance for days on end under oppressive weather conditions, first in a search for missing snowmobilers and later to battle a house fire. The commitment, dedication, and selflessness that was and is displayed by first responding men and women is honorable and instrumental to our community.

Nia:wen kowa to the Hogansburg-Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department who battled the fire and also led the search effort for the snowmobilers. Also nia:wen kowa to the assisting agencies, including the Fort Covington Fire and EMS, Bombay Fire and EMS, Franklin County Dispatch and Emergency Services Office, Franklin County Car 2 and 14, St. Regis Mohawk Police, Parishville Fire and Rescue, Lisbon Fire and Rescue, Potsdam Fire, Massena Fire, St. Lawrence County Cars 26 and 27, the Surete Du Quebec, Roger Lalonde - former member of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Akwesasne Mohawk Police and Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance Unit.

Thank you as well to the countless members of the community who offered their assistance by joining the search on their personal snowmobiles, cooking food for the large search party, or assisting during either tragedy in any way.

You are all appreciated, nia:wen kowa.

Our deepest sympathies to the families who have lost loved ones.