A-shift held a ceremony at Station 1 to Honor those who lost their lives 9 years ago. The event started promptly at 8:46 am EST which is when the first plane hit the first tower. Followed by a moment of silence.
BC Crespo lead the ceremony assisted by Eng. Garza (not fully pictured) Lt. Holliday, Lt. Bayes, FF Ellis.
Lt. Holliday read the meaning of the “The ringing of the bell” a tradition of the fire service.
In the past, as fire fighters began their tour of duty, it was the bell that signaled the beginning of that day’s shift. Throughout the day and night, each alarm was sounded by a bell, which summoned these brave souls to fight fires and to place their lives in jeopardy for the good of their fellow citizen. And when the fire was out and the alarm had come to an end, it was the bell that signaled to all the completion of that call. When a fire fighter had died in the line of duty, paying the supreme sacrifice, it was the mournful toll of the bell that solemnly announced a comrade’s passing.
We utilize these traditions as symbols, which reflect honor and respect on those who have given so much and who have served so well. To symbolize the devotion that these brave souls had for their duty, a special signal of three rings, three times each, represents the end of our comrades’ duties and that they will be returning to quarters. And so, to those who have selflessly given their lives for the good of their fellow man, their tasks completed, their duties well done, to our comrades, their last alarm, they are going home.
Following the Ringing of the bell the Flags were Lowered to Half Staff by FF Ellis and Eng. Garza. FF Ellis then gave a small sermon followed by a Prayer. Lt. Robert then played Amazing grace on the Bagpipes. Following the outside ceremony all in attendance was invited into Station 1 for coffee and donuts.
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