SAVANNAH, Ga. () – The Savannah Fire Department (SFD) honored the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, during a ceremony Thursday.

The ceremony featured the tolling of a bell and a wreath adorned with 343 ribbons, each representing a firefighter who perished on that fateful day. The attacks claimed nearly 3,000 lives.

“We’re gathered here today because, as a community, a nation, and a city, we made a promise to never forget and to always remember the face of hate that day,” stated Savannah Mayor Van Johnson.

Savannah Fire Chief Elzie Kitchen said the department’s traditions make ceremonies like this meaningful.

“One thing notable about the fire department is that we value tradition and pay tribute to our fallen firefighters,” said Kitchen. “Given that it was the single biggest loss of firefighter lives in one event, we take this time to honor and remember those brave individuals, alongside the nearly 3,000 others who lost their lives.”

Kitchen added that the anniversary is a reminder for unity.

“It wasn’t only firefighters who lost their lives; it was fellow Americans,” he continued. “In today’s world, even now, we recognize the need for humanity to unite like we did then. If there’s anything I’d like to emphasize, it’s that it’s time for humanity to come together.”

Johnson said the city will continue to support the families of those lost and those still serving today.

“We pledge to continue supporting them and their families, and to stand by those serving on the ground, not just in the military, not just on our streets, but those of us in the red fire vehicles across the nation, expressing gratitude for their daily service,” Johnson affirmed.