The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, signed into law on April 21, 2009, established September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. This day serves to honor the memory of those who perished in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, while also keeping alive the spirit of unity and compassion that emerged in the aftermath.
September 11 has since become a date that forever symbolizes the bravery and dedication of our nation, particularly within the fire service community. In recognition of this, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue has developed a robust program to engage recruits with the history and significance of 9/11, ensuring that the legacy of those who sacrificed their lives is remembered and honored in the hearts and minds of the next generation of firefighters.
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue takes a comprehensive and heartfelt approach to engage recruits with the history and impact of 9/11. This begins early in their EMT training, where a dedicated instructional section focuses on the events of that day through a series of videos provided by the FDNY. These videos feature powerful personal accounts, including that of John Morabito, who shares his miraculous experiences during the 9/11 attacks. His story, along with others, conveys the gravity of the day and the profound effect it has had on the fire service community.
In addition to these videos, discussions are held between staff and recruits, providing a space to reflect on the events of 9/11 and how they have personally and professionally impacted those in the fire service. These discussions help ensure that the lessons and sacrifices of that day are not just remembered but deeply understood and respected by the next generation of firefighters.
To further solidify this connection, recruits and basic training staff participate in a team bonding exercise in which each person completes 343 trips up and down the interior training tower. This number represents the 343 firefighters who lost their lives on 9/11. The exercise is designed to forge a physical and emotional bond with the sacrifices made, ensuring that the memory of those who gave their lives remains a living part of the department’s culture and ethos.
Additionally, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue has an established standard operating procedure (SOP) for an agency-wide radio announcement that takes place on September 11. At 10:28 a.m., all personnel are directed to stand at attention and assemble in an organized ceremonial formation near the facility flagpoles. The announcement, broadcast over the 4-Alpha channel, honors the 343 firefighters, 60 law enforcement officers, and EMS personnel, 246 passengers, 184 victims at the Pentagon, and 2,136 victims at the World Trade Center who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. The message concludes with a solemn reminder:
“The courage, compassion, and loyalty of their sacrifice have inspired and defined the character of our great nation. May we never forget.”
This SOP ensures that the department collectively pays tribute to the heroes of that day, reaffirming their commitment to service and remembrance.
We will never forget.
