Jim Fair
The bagpipe was a solemn reminder for the purpose of honoring of the firefighters' fallen comrades.
Jim Fair
Peter Janowski, a volunteer fireman at the BSFD, spoke of the heroes who have sacrificed their lives to save others.
Jim Fair
White doves, used for the first time in the annual ceremony, pay tribute to the victims and heroes of 9/11.
Jim Fair
The Flag of Honor has all the names of the victims of 9/11.
The heroes were recognizable in their dress firefighters uniforms.
They circled the Boiling Springs Fire Department's 9/11 Memorial, featuring a 6-foot, 5-inch I-Beam, weighing 1,360 pounds, that was part of the World Trade Center towers destroyed in the terrorists attacks of Sept. 11, 2011.
"Thirteen years ago America was very different," Chief Steve Graham told a sparse group of visitors commemorating the day. "One of the things we forget was what a hero was."
Graham said on that fateful morning, "Our world was shattered. It reminded us what it means to be a man, fireman and a hero."
Peter Janowski, a volunteer fireman joined BSFD 10 years after the attacks. He delivered the eloquent speech that said: "I have asked myself what is the best way to remember the men and women who sacrificed themselves for their country. We can honor the fallen heroes with our own lives going on.
"I remember coming home after 9/11 and giving my family a bigger hug than usual," Jankowski said.
"Sometimes I wonder what went through the minds of the firefighters as they ran toward the towers. I ask myself, do I have the courage to sacrifice my life and made the decision they did? It's part of our everyday lives – freedom and securing our security."
Graham said, "On the 13th anniversary of those heroes, they still challenge us to reflect what it's like to be an American." He closed with the Firefighter's Prayer.
Firefighter's Prayer
When I am called to duty, God,
Where ever flames may rage,
give me strength to save some life,
whatever be its age.
Help me to embrace a little child
before it is too late,
or save an older person
from the horror of that fate.
Enable me to be alert,
and hear the weakest shout,
quickly and efficiently
to put the fire out.
I want to fill my calling,
and to give the best in me,
to guard my every neighbor and,
protect his property.
And if according to your will
That I should lose my life,
Please bless with your protecting hand,
my children and my wife.
Amen
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