Twenty-three years ago, the nation watched in shock as the World Trade Center towers fell. This year, on Wednesday, September 11th, the Laramie Fire Department (LFD) will honor the first responders who risked everything that day.

“September 11th is a day the whole nation pauses to remember. I thank all first responders who serve their communities,” said Assistant City Manager Todd Feezer.

The LFD’s 9/11 Remembrance ceremony will begin at 9:00 a.m., just after the first plane hit the towers at 8:46 a.m. The Honor Guard will raise the flags at the downtown fire station, followed by a speech from Chief Dan Johnson. The event is open to the public, retired firefighters, and their families.

“Those firefighters made the ultimate sacrifice that day. Our remembrance allows us to honor their brotherhood,” said LFD Firefighter Tomy Jansen.

In the evening, LFD will host a Memorial Stair Climb at the Arena Auditorium to honor the first responders who lost their lives. Participants will climb 110 floors in memory of those who did the same on 9/11. UW students are encouraged to participate.

“Each year, students who weren’t born when 9/11 happened come to the climb, helping keep the memory of that day alive,” Jansen said.

The event begins at 5:30 p.m., with registration, water stations, and music. T-shirts supporting the LFD Burnout Fund are available for $25. Commemorative flags will also fly at all Laramie fire stations. More details can be found on the LFD’s Facebook page.