Military

Hurlburt Field hosts 9/11 remembrance ceremony

Hurlburt Field held its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony, honoring victims and first responders. Col. Dierig emphasized never forgetting the bravery displayed that day.

Jared Williams

Hurlburt Field Fire Department held its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Sept. 11, 2024, to honor those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks and pay tribute to the heroism displayed that day.

The ceremony, which took place at Hurlburt Field, featured the Hurlburt Field honor guard presenting the colors and speeches from key personnel emphasizing the importance of remembering the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

U.S. Air Force Col. Patrick Dierig, 1st Special Operations Wing commander, highlighted the sacrifice of first responders during the attacks. “There were 2,977 people killed that day, 441 of them were first responders, they were the ones running into the towers when others were running out,” Dierig said.

The observance also recognized the acts of bravery by firefighters, police officers, and citizens who risked their lives to save others. Jacob Wofsy, a 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, stressed the significance of the ceremony for the fire service community.

“During 9/11, 343 firefighters didn’t make it home, honoring them and their families while also remembering what they gave is incredibly important,” Wofsy said.

Two firefighter helmets and a large bell are displayed on a table during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Sept. 11, 2024. Ringing the bell is a symbolic act signifying the end of a shift for a fallen firefighter. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alysa Calvarese)

As part of the ceremony, an Airman from each of the 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron, 1st Special Operations Security Forces Squadron, and 1st Special Operations Medical Group read a prayer for their fallen comrades.

Dierig emphasized the ongoing importance of remembrance, saying, “Never forget about the bravery of the first responders, not just on 9/11 but everyday. Never Forget how we felt that day. Let it strengthen our duty and resolve.”

The ceremony concluded with firefighters ringing a bell, a tradition signifying the end of a shift for a fallen firefighter.

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