Thursday marked the 24th anniversary of one of the darkest moments in American history, the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 that claimed nearly 3,000 innocent lives in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania. At the Police/Fire building on Thursday morning, Fire Chief Christopher Cross, flanked by fellow firefighters, law enforcement officers and community members, led a brief remembrance ceremony honoring the victims including the 343 firefighters who perished in New York City that day.

“That day changed our country, and it changed the fire service forever. It reminded us that the uniform we wear carries responsibility far greater than ourselves. It reminds us of the fragile nature of life and the strength that comes when people stand together,” Cross said.

He also reflected on the sense of national unity felt after the attacks out of both grief and resolve. Cross led the observation of a moment of silence before Fire Department Chaplain David Shearer read an invocation prayer and Cross then performed the traditional bell ringing ceremony, the striking of the four fives, to honor the fallen firefighters who died on 9/11.

The event concluded with a 21-gun salute from the Marshalltown Combined Honor Guard and the customary playing of “Taps.”

“Please give us a wave if you see us out in public today because we’re here standing guard for 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Thank you,” Cross said.