One year ago this week the small town of Watertown found itself in the center of a manhunt for the Boston Marathon bombing suspects.
For the people who live and work in the town Tuesday’s bombing memorial was a key moment in the healing process.
“It’s just not enough time. There’s a lot of healing to still do. As we watch [the tribute] it still hurts,” Watertown firefighter Brian Martel said.
What started in Boston on April 15 came to an end in Watertown April 19 as officers from across the state captured the one bombing suspect that was still alive.
“It seems like just yesterday, it doesn’t seem like a year went by at all,” Watertown Fire Deputy Chief Rob Iannetta said.
Many firefighters and residents said they still can’t believe that so much happened in the town that is just more than 4 square miles in size.
“It’s surreal,” Martel said.
Many of Watertown’s first responders went to Boston for the memorial, a handful were part of the honor guard during the wreath laying ceremony.