Marlins hold night for first responders on 9/11

MIAMI -- The jersey hung in the Marlins' dugout, and the message was loud and clear.

A white customized Miami Marlins jersey hung with "Never Forget 9/11" on the back.

Major League Baseball on Wednesday recognized the 12th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

"I remember it like it was yesterday," Miami manager Mike Redmond said.

On that tragic day, Redmond was playing for the Marlins. The team had returned from a road trip, and the former catcher woke up to tend to his son, Ryan, who was then six months old.

"I was carrying him around the apartment, having some coffee," Redmond said. "I turned on the TV. I remember that initially coming on. When the plane flew into the tower, I woke my wife up. I don't know if I will ever forget that day and what happened."

The Marlins established "First Responders Appreciation Night" on Wednesday night at Marlins Park.

First responders were recognized before the game against the Braves, and a portion of proceeds from each ticket sold as part of a Special Event package or group will benefit the Police Officers Assistance Trust and the South Florida Council of Firefighters.

All home clubs throughout the Major Leagues had a moment of silence. Like the rest of the league, Marlins Park displayed the "We Shall Not Forget" MLB silhouetted batter ribbon throughout the building.

Marlins outfielder Chris Coghlan holds a special place for those who serve the country. His brother, Kevin, was in the military.

A few years ago, Coghlan was part of a Marlins contingent during the offseason that visited those in the service.

Coghlan was at East Lake High School in the Tampa area when the 9/11 attacks occurred.

"You think about those who put their lives on the line, firemen and women, police officers," Coghlan said. "They were going in, rushing in trying to save lives. That's what the world is about, it's about being something bigger than just yourself.

"The people we lost through that time is something we should always commemorate and salute, and say a prayer for them."