09/11/2026
REMEMBERING THE FALLEN | 25 YEARS LATER
This morning, members of the Temple Terrace Fire Department joined first responders, veterans, military members, students, and community leaders at Hillsborough County’s annual Patriot Day 9/11 Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park and Museum.
Fire Chief Ian Kemp was honored to take part in the ceremony alongside Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, Florida Chief Jason Dougherty and Plant City Fire Rescue Chief David Dittman as our community gathered to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and the extraordinary courage and sacrifice shown in the moments, days, and years that followed.
Among the most solemn moments was the procession of a 135-pound steel beam recovered from the wreckage of the World Trade Center, followed by the traditional fire service ringing of the bell in remembrance of the fallen.
For the fire service, the promise to never forget is one we carry forward together, honoring those who came before us through our service to others.