LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – 23 years have passed since nearly 3,000 people were killed after a group of terrorists launched coordinated attacks against the U.S.
From New York to the Pentagon to Pennsylvania, 9/11 became America’s most deadly terror attack. But the anniversary is also a somber reminder of loss in the Las Vegas valley.
The tolling of the bell ceremony started early Wednesday morning in Las Vegas at Fire Station Five at approximately the same time as the South Tower collapse at the World Trade Center. The bell is rung as a way to commemorate the victims, bringing out locals who are happy to show their support.
“As long as I’m alive, I’m going to keep coming back here to do this because it means that much to me,” according to Tim Szymanski, a former spokesman with Las Vegas Fire & Rescue.
Fire Station Five opened on September 11th, 20 years ago. That’s why the ceremony is held there every year.
Those of us who are old enough to remember that tragic day were told to never forget.
Szymanski says it’s equally important to keep the story alive. “I try to teach it to our kids today because they don’t know what 9/11 is. When I went to a school to give a talk about it, the kids didn’t know what I was talking about.”
To stay top-of-mind, first responders went on their annual trek to the top of a building; the Strat Hotel and Casino, walking 1,455 steps, many dressed in full gear, in honor of those lost on 9/11. Vice President and General Manager, Skylar Dice says he’s happy to lend his building for a great cause.
“Happy to help support the local fire departments in this memorial climb and it’s a great event to be a part of every single year,” Dice said.
Not far away, the Professional Firefighters of Nevada led the annual 9/11 tribute procession in Downtown Las Vegas.
The memorial procession includes a march by firefighters and military personnel, and a moment of silence to reflect on the lives lost in a message that continues to reverberate around the world. Take it from visitor, Roy Armstrong.
“I’m not from the USA, but my goodness, it did affect the world. We’ve got nothing but respect for the people who responded that day.”
The number of firefighters who died of 9/11-related illnesses now surpasses the number of those killed in the 9/11 terror attacks.
Since September 11th, 2001, FDNY has lost more than 360 members because of World Trade Center-related illnesses. 343 died on that fateful day.
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