Memorium, Honor, Celebration

In honor of September 11, 2001, this space is dedicated to:

• The men, women, and children who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and beyond as a result of that day.

• The men and women who struggle to live today as a result of September 11, 2001.

• The men, women, and rescue dogs that responded and worked tirelessly to save lives and to recover lives on September 11, 2001, and beyond. 

• The men and women who responded from recovery agencies (like the Red Cross, Salvation Army, ministries, etc.) and the community that supported first responders in their efforts.  They are the heroes that took care of and comforted the heroes on September 11, 2001, and beyond.

• The men and women of the maritime community who responded to ferry thousands of people to safety.

• The children who contributed thousands of drawings, poems, paintings, etc. that were posted around September 11, 2001 emergency scenes and sent to fire stations across the nation.  Your innocence, appreciation, and encouragement shined a bright light upon first responders and a grieving nation, which helped to carry them through one of the worst times in our country's history and of their lives.

• Our military members, who protect our security and freedoms, and fight terrorism around the world to keep us safe at home.

• The families that suffered and sacrificed on September 11, 2001, and beyond.  Those that lost loved ones, those that were affected physically and mentally, and those that lent/lend us their family members so they could/can fulfill their honor and duty to serve as first responders and within our military on September 11, 2001, and beyond.

We honor the fallen and celebrate their spirit.  We honor first responders and our military personnel for their sacrifices, and say, "Thank You."  We celebrate our first responders, the members of our military, and the communities, which make up our grateful nation.  Together we stand!

Together, we shall always remember. 

NICK J. SALAMEH is a 36 year veteran of the fire service. He was a Fire/Emergency Medical Services Captain II and previous Training Program Manager for the Arlington County (VA) Fire Department, with which he served 31 years. He is a former Chair of the Northern Virginia Fire Departments Training Committee. Nick is a contributor to Fire Engineering www.fireengineering.com and Stop Believing Start Knowing (SBSK), https://www.facebook.com/StopBelievingStartKnowing/.