09/11/2026
Twenty‑five years ago today, our nation changed forever.
For those of us who lived through September 11, the memories of that day are still sharp. We remember exactly where we were, who we were standing beside, the images on the television, the phone calls we made, and the fear and uncertainty about what might come next.
Today, we pause to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost, the families whose worlds were shattered in an instant, and the incredible courage of the first responders who ran toward danger without hesitation. Their bravery is something every firefighter—especially those just starting out—should never forget.
For many of us in small communities like ours, what came after 9/11 became deeply personal. That day inspired thousands to serve. Firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMTs, and service members answered the call. Families endured long separations and difficult days. Children grew up watching a parent serve far from home. And for some, there was a knock at the door that changed their lives forever.
The impact of that service and sacrifice is still with us a quarter‑century later. We see it in our veterans, in our Gold Star families, in the spouses and children who held everything together back home, and in the generation of men and women who stepped up because they felt compelled to serve after that tragic day.
We remember them all with gratitude and respect. But remembrance comes with responsibility.
Our gratitude must be more than words. We honor their sacrifice by how we serve our community, how we take care of one another, and how we carry forward the values that make our fire service strong: courage, teamwork, compassion, and commitment.
On this 25th anniversary, let’s remember not only what happened on September 11, 2001, but everything that followed—the service, the sacrifice, the empty chairs at dinner tables, the emotional homecomings, and the millions of lives forever changed.
To every firefighter, every service member, every veteran, and every family who stood alongside them: thank you.
We remember. And we will never forget.
Mark Stanwood
Fire Chief - 3700
Tri-County Fire Protection District
Neighbors helping neighbors
