On Friday, September 11th, 2026, local first responders took time to remember and honor those killed in the worst terror attack on US soil 25 years ago.
The Greenbrier County First Responders Association held a ceremony at the WV State Fairgrounds to begin, followed by a silent parade of lights. During the ceremony attendees were reminded of the 2977 lives lost during the 9/11 attacks, which included 343 NY fire fighters, 71 law enforcement, 8 EMS, and 55 military personnel. Of the emergency personnel at ground zero digging through the rubble of the World Trade Centers, many today still struggle with health ailments due to the toxic fumes they breathed in during the rescue process. During the vigil, local Pastor James Hylton delivered a poignant sermon, and reminded everyone we must never forget the way the world changed on that fateful day.
To honor and remember their brothers and sisters in fire, EMS, and law enforcement, 35 different emergency vehicles participated in the parade, making their way through Fairlea and Lewisburg as the sun set Friday night. Over 70 people attended the ceremony, and many people subsequently pulled over on the side of the streets to watch in solemnity and solidarity as the array of ambulances, police cruisers, and fire engines made their way through town.
“We remember those who never made it home, those who comforted the innocent and those who worked tirelessly for weeks, to give closure to those who need it most,” said Briton Kirby, with the Tri-County Volunteer Fire Department.
“We owe it to ourselves, and we owe it to them, to never forget the sacrifices they made.”
