09/11/2026
September 11, 2001 — 25 years later, we remember.
Today, the members of the South Hero Volunteer Fire Department pause to remember the thousands of innocent lives lost on September 11, 2001, and the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice while answering the call.
Among them were 343 members of the FDNY who ran toward danger while others were running away. They climbed the stairs of the World Trade Center knowing the risks, driven by a commitment to save lives and help those in need.
They were firefighters, officers, EMTs, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, and friends. They were members of a fire service family much like our own.
As firefighters, we understand the words “answering the call.” We understand the willingness to leave our families, walk into the unknown, and put the safety of others before our own.
Twenty-five years later, their courage continues to inspire firefighters across this country — including right here in South Hero.
We also remember the first responders who survived that day but later lost their lives to illnesses connected to the rescue and recovery efforts. Their sacrifice did not end when the towers fell.
To the families who lost loved ones, to the survivors, and to every first responder who answered the call that day: we remember you, we honor you, and we will never forget.
From our department to yours, we stand together in remembrance.
Never Forget. 🇺🇸
343 — Always Remembered.
September 11, 2001
