9/11 Tribute

On September 11, 2001, the United States faced one of the most tragic days in its history. At the World Trade Center and in the surrounding area, 2,606 people lost their lives due to the terrorist attacks and the collapse of the towers. Among those lost were 2,192 civilians, eight EMTs and paramedics from private hospital units, 343 New York City Fire Department members, and 71 law enforcement officers, including 23 from the New York City Police Department.

At 8:46 a.m., American Airlines Flight 11 hit the north side of the North Tower (1 World Trade Center), between floors 93 and 99. All passengers on board were killed, along with an unknown number of people inside the building.

At 9:03 a.m., United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the south side of the South Tower (2 World Trade Center), striking between floors 77 and 85. Everyone on board was killed, and more lives were lost inside the tower. The impact sent debris from the aircraft, including an engine, several blocks away.

At 9:37 a.m., American Airlines Flight 77 struck the western side of the Pentagon. All 58 people on board died, along with 125 people inside the building, including emergency personnel. The crash caused a severe fire within the Pentagon.

At 10:03 a.m., United Airlines Flight 93 crashed in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, after passengers and crew attempted to regain control of the plane from the hijackers. Those on board, having learned of the other attacks, gave their lives to prevent further tragedy.

In the years since, many survivors, firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency personnel, and other responders developed serious health conditions linked to exposure at Ground Zero. More than 1,400 responders have died from illnesses related to the aftermath of that day.

Twenty-five years ago, these events unfolded before a shocked world. Millions watched the attacks and the collapse of the World Trade Center as they happened, witnessing scenes few could ever have imagined. For those who experienced that day, the memories remain clear and lasting.

Despite the overwhelming loss, Americans united in response. Across the country, communities came together in mourning, compassion, courage, and service. The nation honored the civilians, firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency responders, and many others who made the ultimate sacrifice. Those who entered the devastation to search for survivors and aid the injured are also remembered, including those who later endured the effects of their service.

The site of the World Trade Center has been rebuilt, and memorials now honor those who were lost. What was once a scene of devastation has become a place for remembrance, reflection, resilience, and hope.

The Crisfield Volunteer Fire Department respectfully honors every civilian, firefighter, police officer, emergency responder, and individual whose life was changed by the attacks of September 11, 2001.

The department remembers the lives lost and the families whose futures were forever altered. Each name represents someone’s child, spouse, parent, sibling, or friend. They began the day expecting it to be ordinary, only for their loved ones to face unimaginable tragedy.

Sympathy and condolences are extended to all families and friends who continue to feel this loss. The courage of first responders, who rushed toward danger as others fled, is especially recognized.

As the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, is marked, it remains vital to remember.

It is the hope of the department that such a tragedy will never happen again. It is everyone’s responsibility to remember those lost, honor those who served, and teach future generations about these events and the sacrifices that followed.

Many Americans can still recall exactly where they were upon hearing the news of the attacks. Twenty-five years later, the need to remember continues to be as important as ever.

Let us remember.
Let us honor.
Let us teach.
Let us stand together.

The United States of America stands united.

United we stand. Divided we fall.

Never forget.

September 11, 2001

25 Years — We Remember, We Honor, We Will Never Forget

Crisfield Volunteer Fire Department