Martin Luther King Jr was quoted as saying, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience; But where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
So it is true with Port Authority Police Detective (ret) and BBO member Will Jimeno. Assigned to the Port Authority Bus Terminal Command on 9/11, Will found himself trapped under tons of World Trade Center debris for an excess of 13 hours. His story of survival and heroism has been well documented and is second to none.
Recently, we spoke with Will about his experiences with BBO and, specifically, the upcoming 2018 New York City Tunnel to Towers 5k, in which Brothers Before Others has a very special team entered.
As Will stated, the members of Brothers Before Others are humbled and honored to be hosting over 20 members of the Weymouth Police Department and their family as part of our team.
On 7/15/2018, Weymouth Police Sergeant Michael Chesna was killed in the line of duty while investigating reports of an erratic driver. In response to the loss, the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation provided an immeasurable amount of relief to Sgt Chesna’s wife and family. As a result, Brothers Before Others founder/President Michael Burke coordinated with members of the Weymouth Police Department to create a special opportunity to pay that act of kindness forward.
Along with the over 150 BBO members and friends/family, the Weymouth Police Department members will be running the 5k in Sgt Chensa’s honor. They will be completing the run in full uniform, accompanied by other uniformed officers/BBO members from as far as California, Minnesota, Florida, Baltimore and many more. Michael Burke has been floored by the response, not only of his members, but also of the Weymouth Police family: “We are proud to honor Sgt Michael Chesna. It is a very small gesture, but one we hope will resonate with all those in attendance at the Tunnel to Towers. For many of the participants in this event, it is one day in their life. However, this is the reality that all first responders and their families have to confront every day. It is important that we come together on this grand scale; but just as important to be there for one another; whether it means a phone call, sharing a story or simply just a hug. Never forget means just that.”
BBO’s members continuously lead from the front when it comes to carrying out the mission of never forgetting. With examples like Will Jimeno amongst our ranks, how can we not? We are eternally grateful for his service, sacrifice and leadership.
If you would like to join our team on 09/30/18, there is still time. Please register on the Tunnel To Towers site, being sure to register under the group name, “Brothers Before Others”. We are looking forward to an amazing day of remembrance and camaraderie.
For More on Sgt Michael Chesna:
https://www.odmp.org/officer/23723-sergeant-michael-c-chesna
To Register for the Tunnel to Towers:
For More on the Siller Foundation: