Twenty-five years have passed since September 11, 2001.
For first responders, September 11th is a reminder of what it means to run toward danger when others are trying to get away. For the public, it reminds us how quickly lives can change.
Outside our Firehall is a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.
To some, it may look like twisted metal. To us, it represents the lives lost, the first responders and civilians who never came home, the families who continue to carry that loss, and the thousands who answered the call in the days, months and years that followed.
As first responders, we know that when the alarm sounds, we may not know what awaits us. We simply know that someone needs help.
This steel is more than a memorial. It is a reminder of the bond between first responders and the communities we serve. We are neighbours, friends, and family, and when the worst happens, we stand together.
Twenty-five years later, we remember those that were lost. We honour those who responded. We recognize the sacrifices that continue long after that day, and we remember the families who continue to carry their loss.
To every first responder who answers the call, thank you.
To every member of the public who supports them, thank you.
And to everyone whose life was changed on September 11th, 2001, we remember you.
This piece of steel tells a story of loss, courage, service, and people coming together when it mattered most.
Twenty-five years later, we remember.
We honour.
We stand together.
And we will never forget.
Rob Pilon
Fire Chief, Meaford Fire Department
81 Stewart Street, Meaford, Ontario