Santa Monica Close-up

Santa Monica Firefighter Bill Howard lowers the flag to half mast during the 911 Remembrance Ceremony at SMFD headquarters on Tuesday, September 11, 2012. Eleven years ago today, the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Arlington, Va. and in Shanksville, Pa. resulted in the deaths of 2,977 people. Those killed included 343 Firefighters, 60 Police Officers and 8 private EMT/Paramedics totaling 411 emergency personnel. Also included in the civilian deaths were 5 people with connections to Santa Monica. In recognition of those who perished on that tragic day, the Santa Monica Fire Department annually conducts a brief and solemn remembrance ceremony consistent with the International Association of Fire Chiefs recommended protocols. All four community Fire Stations participated.

Update on Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at 10:57AM by

Fabian Lewkowicz

Santa Monica Fire Department Chief Scott Ferguson addresses his department during the 911 Remembrance Ceremony on Tuesday, September 11, 2012.

“Like many of you, eleven years ago I made an solemn promise to never forget. A lot has happened since the attack on September 11, 2001. In fact, departments around our country have added generations of firefighters that weren’t around to make that commitment. Many were barely teenagers at the time. So, the way I figure it, those of us that still have those ashen images etched indelibly in our minds owe a moment of our time to honor the memory of the 343 firefighters, 60 Police Officers, and 8 private EMT/Paramedics that sacrificed their lives that day.”

“Life is complicated. Distractions - even welcome ones - can draw us away from things that matter most. Still, I ask that if you made a promise…spend time with someone that you care about to reflect on what that day meant to you. For me it represents another pledge I strive to keep every day. One that ensures that I lead with the kind of integrity and a dedication that provides both our community and our responders with the safest possible environment from which to live and work. That means placing a strong emphasis training, and having the courage to lead in the face of a variety of pressures that may otherwise encourage me to take the easy way out.”

“The USFA reports that we have lost over 1,000 firefighters in the line of duty since 9-11 – some of those were very close to home. The memory of what they stood for should never be forgotten.”

“Thank you for what you do,” Santa Monica Fire Chief Scott Ferguson.