Firefighters Honor Fallen Comrades

People driving by the fire station on Citrus Drive Friday morning saw a large flag suspended from the top of a hook-and-ladder truck in the driveway, to be expected on the anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks when so many first responders lost their lives.

But when they saw the line of uniformed firefighters standing at attention, they couldn't help but slow down, so as not to break the respectful silence.

Station personnel gathered at 9:50 a.m., as Fire Explorers lowered the flag to half-staff for the roll call and words from Battalion Chief Jim Robinson, Santa Clarita Sheriff's Lt. Brenda Cambra, Santa Clarita Mayor Pro Tem Laurene Weste and Councilwoman Laurie Ender.

"This is a day we need to remember all firefighters and law enforcement officers for their bravery, sacrifice, courage and dedication," said Engineer Jerry Thomsen, who served as master of ceremonies.

Robinson reminded those gathered that the loss of 74 law enforcement officers and 343 firefighters on September 11 was felt much deeper than just their families, impacting spouses, children and their fellow first responders in the firefighting family. He also asked that the two firefighters who lost their lives fighting the Station Fire be remembered.

Cambra spoke about the importance of Sept. 11 as a landmark day in the nation's history.

"I'll never forget 9/11 as the day America changed to accept the reality of terrorism," she said.

The ceremonies concluded with a firefighter playing a haunting rendition of "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes.