Colleton County Fire-Rescue joined fire departments across the country, conducting a remembrance ceremony of the Tenth Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on our nation which claimed the lives of 343 FDNY Firefighters, many police officers, EMS personnel and several thousand civilians. The coordinated attacks occurred in New York City, Shanksville, PA and Washington DC. The ceremony was part of a nationwide salute to the fallen and America’s extraordinary response to the tragic events. It was held at Fire Station # 19. Close to one hundred people were in attendance, with the training room filled to capacity and people lining the walls. The service followed the exact times of the World Trade Center tower collapses which claim the majority of the lives. It recognized the great loss of life and those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service to others.

Station flags were at half staff and the ceremony began with firefighters in formation, followed by the tolling of the bell in the 5-5-5 code at 09:59 signifying the collapse of the south Tower.

Firefighter Bryon Martinson tended the bell, which was followed by a welcome and open statement by Chief McRoy. Battalion Chief Marty Stallings presented a history on the tolling of the bell and the 5-5-5 signal. Lieutenant Campbell and Battalion Chief Brent Dalton then read the names of each of the 343 firefighters who perished. Assistant Chief Greene read an editorial by Bobby Halton, which was followed by a memorial video, “Blood of Heroes”. The ceremony was closed with the tolling of the bell and closing remarks by Chief McRoy. Following the presentation, Ms. Bobbi Greene presented the Chief with a framed copy of the “Hymn to Fallen Heroes” to be hung at Headquarters.  

Visitors were invited to tour the station, meet the firefighters and inspect the apparatus. Lifenet 4 flew to Station # 19 so the crew could attend the ceremony. The public was encourage to inspect the medical helicopter as well. Following the event, Mr. and Mrs. Greene served lunch to the on-duty crews and volunteer firefighters who attended. Crews were rotated in to Station # 19 so everyone on-duty could participate. Joey Gardner prepared a cake, complete with the statement “Never Forget”.