09/12/2025
24 years later, it seems as though the nation may be starting to let the memory fade. For us, as firefighters and first responders, it's more than a national tragedy, it's the darkest day in our brotherhood's history. 343 of our brothers and sisters perished on that morning. One of the first people in the first tower was a probationary firefighter on his first day. The first confirmed fire service casualty was an FDNY Chaplin. Firefighters only made it as far as the 74th floor, after arriving less than 5 minutes after the first plane hit. And despite the first tower's collapse, dozens, rather hundreds, of firefighters, police, EMS, and others, pushed further up and further in, racing even faster than before, to try and beat the clock with the second tower. To them, our fallen brothers, we continue to remember, honor, and carry on the watch in their place.
Many people after 9/11/2001 enlisted in the military or joined the fire service and other careers of service. Many of those members are now retired or will be within the next couple years. What once was a nationwide movement to serve their communities, has now faded. Kids graduating high school this year weren't alive during 9/11, the passion and drive has worn off. Departments all across the country are struggling to maintain staffing and replace those who have come before us, giving their bodies, minds, and time away from family to help others. If you see a retired or active first responder this week, be sure to thank them for their service and their sacrifice. Even the best job in the world comes with a cost we all share, but are glad to pay it just the same.
Today, take a moment to reflect on 24 years ago. And if you're younger than 24, take a few moments to go learn about that fateful day. Regardless of the future, regardless of how much or little media coverage 9/11/2001 has gotten in recent years, the men and women serving their communities will continue to carry on in their memory, in their honor.
We here on the Stamping Ground Volunteer Fire Department will continue to serve our community and parts of Scott County without hesitation, and we are proud to do so.