09/10/2026
Tomorrow marks 25 years since the day our nation was changed forever. On September 11, 2001, I was on duty here at the Sauk Village Fire Department as a Lieutenant/Paramedic when the terrorist attacks unfolded before our eyes. Like so many others in the fire service, I watched in disbelief as thousands of innocent lives were taken and countless families were forever changed.
We remember the 2,977 souls lost that day โ especially the 343 FDNY firefighters who climbed those stairs with courage that words can never fully capture. We also honor the firefighters who continue to pass away even now from illnesses caused by working in the dust and rubble. Their sacrifice did not end on 9/11, and we will never forget them.
But even in the midst of unimaginable tragedy, there was extraordinary heroism. It is estimated that 10,000 to 14,000 people were rescued and evacuated from the World Trade Center before the towers collapsed โ the largest and most successful rescue operation in history. Those lives were saved because firefighters, police officers, and everyday citizens refused to give up.
As we observe the 25th anniversary tomorrow, I ask everyone to take a moment to honor those we lost, those we saved, and those who continue to serve. May we never forget the bravery, the sacrifice, and the unity that carried us through one of the darkest days in our nationโs history.
We will never forget.
โ Fire Chief Keith Damm
Sauk Village Fire Department
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