News

9/11: A Day of Service and Remembrance

Published Date: 09.07.2011

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. Since 2009, September 11 has been designated a National Day of Service and Remembrance to honor those who lost their lives – including 347 firefighters and paramedics – and recapture the unprecedented sense of unity and compassion that swept the nation after the attacks.

Americans are encouraged to participate in service and remembrance activities on the 9/11 anniversary. This year, more than 1 million Americans are expected to serve in their communities, participating in projects ranging from food drives and home repairs to neighborhood cleanups and disaster preparation activities.

As the American people consider what you can do to serve your community, think about making a long-term commitment to helping others by volunteering with your local fire or EMS department. This noble tradition dates back to the very beginning of our nation. Many of our founding fathers, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, proudly served in volunteer fire brigades.

Today, 71% of our nation's firefighters remain volunteer, numbering over 800,000 strong. Volunteer firefighters, EMS personnel, and rescue workers are the backbone of our communities, allowing our citizens to sleep soundly at night knowing that these courageous responders are just a phone call away in the event of an emergency. These dedicated individuals give their time to protecting their neighbors because they love their community and their country. This is the true spirit of volunteering.

You don’t have to be a first responder to help your local fire department. Volunteers are also needed to support first responders in non-operational roles. Fire Corps teams provide critical assistance to their local fire departments by conducting a wide range of needed tasks, such as preparedness planning, fire prevention education, community relations, and much more. Everyone has an interest, skill, or talent that can benefit the local fire department and thus serve the community.

To find a volunteer opportunity with your local fire department, call 1-800-FIRE-LINE or visit www.1800fireline.org.

Find more information about the National Day of Service and Remembrance, including activity ideas and listings, at www.serve.gov/sept11.

Fire Departments: Join the NVFC discussion on Facebook and let us know what you, your department, or your community will be doing to mark the 9/11 anniversary, or share any thoughts you have as we approach this somber day. Visit the NVFC page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nvfc1 and click on Discussions. You must be logged into Facebook and a Fan of the NVFC to see the discussion.

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