Offutt firefighters honor first responders of 9/11

  • Published
  • By Delanie Stafford
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE Neb. --  More than 40 members of Offutt's fire department paid tribute to the 343 firefighters who died while responding to the 9/11 terrorist attacks in a solemn ceremony held Sept. 11 at the main fire station.

"I think it's important that we never forget the sacrifices made on that day," said Chief David Eblin, 55th Wing fire chief. "It's something we've done every year to pay our respects to the fallen firefighters and victims of the attacks."

The ceremony included remarks by the fire chief and wing chaplain, along with a solemn "Four Fives" ringing of the bell ceremony. The tradition, which was adopted from New York firemen, signifies a firefighter's last call.

"When a firefighter died in the line of duty or an important official died, headquarters would transmit five bell strikes, repeated in four series, with a slight pause between each series, followed by the announcement, Eblin said. "This was done as long ago as 1865 in the New York City Fire Department to inform the rank and file of the death of Abraham Lincoln."

During a prayer, the wing chaplain spoke about the bravery displayed by first responders.

"On Sept 11, 2001 our country was tested by fire, and out of this fire we witnessed the kind of stuff our country is made of," said U.S. Air Force Chaplain (Maj.) Bradley Kimble. "We witnessed a multitude of brave firefighters and police officers run into danger to save others knowing that they would probably not return, and many lost their lives."

As part of the day's observances, Offutt members were invited to observe a one-minute moment of silence, beginning at 9:11 a.m.

Additionally, fire fighters in full bunker gear and 55th Security Forces Squadron members climbed the air traffic control tower as a way to pay tribute to the heroic efforts of the firefighters who responded to the twin towers in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001.