09/11/2026
Twenty-five years ago today, our nation was changed forever.
On September 11, 2001, 2,977 innocent lives were lost. Among them were firefighters, paramedics, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and countless civilians who never had the chance to return home.
For those of us who wear the fire service badge, the story of 9/11 carries a particularly profound meaning. 343 firefighters entered the World Trade Center knowing there was danger, yet they climbed the stairs while others were coming down. They answered the call, just as generations of firefighters have done before them and continue to do today.
Their sacrifice reminds us that the fire service is about more than trucks, equipment, and emergency calls. It is about service, courage, brotherhood, sacrifice, and answering the call when someone else needs help.
Today, the Newsoms Volunteer Fire Department remembers the lives lost, honors the heroes who ran toward the danger, and stands with the families and loved ones who have carried their loss for 25 years.
We also remember the countless first responders who survived that day and have continued to carry its physical and emotional scars.
Twenty-five years later, we still remember.
