Remembering September 11, 2001.
On the morning of September 11th, 2001, the United States experienced the deadliest terrorist attack in its history. Nineteen terrorists associated with the extremist group al-Qaeda hijacked four commercial airplanes. Their plan was to use the aircraft as weapons to strike significant American landmarks.
At 8:46 a.m. Eastern Time, American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. Just 17 minutes later, at 9:03 a.m., United Airlines Flight 175 struck the South Tower. The collisions caused massive fires and ultimately led to the complete collapse of both towers within hours, killing thousands and devastating lower Manhattan.
A third plane, American Airlines Flight 77, crashed into the Pentagon—the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense—at 9:37 a.m., causing significant damage and loss of life.
The fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, was also headed for a major target in Washington, D.C., likely the U.S. Capitol or the White House. However, passengers onboard, having learned about the earlier attacks, fought back against the hijackers. The plane ultimately crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, at 10:03 a.m., preventing further destruction but killing all aboard.
In total, nearly 3,000 people were killed, and thousands more were injured. The attacks shocked the world and led to a profound transformation in global security policies. In response, the United States launched the War on Terror, leading to military action in Afghanistan and the eventual killing of al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in 2011.
The events of 9/11 left a lasting impact on the United States and the world, reshaping national security, international relations, and the collective memory of a generation.
Honoring Courage, Service, and Sacrifice
FDNY on 9/11
On the morning of September 11th, 2001, the Fire Department of New York City (FDNY) faced the gravest emergency in its history. At 8:46 a.m., when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, FDNY units were immediately dispatched. As firefighters raced toward lower Manhattan, they had little idea of the scale of the unfolding disaster.
When United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower at 9:03 a.m., it became clear this was a coordinated terrorist attack. Thousands of civilians were trapped in the towers, some above the impact zones where stairwells and elevators had been destroyed. FDNY command established incident posts and began deploying hundreds of firefighters into both towers for rescue and evacuation efforts.
Despite the chaos, the firefighters showed extraordinary courage. They climbed the smoke-filled stairwells, many carrying up to 60 pounds of gear, helping office workers evacuate while trying to reach the upper floors where people were stranded. Command posts were set up in the lobbies, and communication was constant, though hampered by faulty radio systems and the overwhelming scale of the incident.
At 9:59 a.m., the South Tower collapsed with almost no warning. Many firefighters inside and nearby were killed instantly. Despite the unimaginable loss, FDNY personnel in the area continued rescue operations. At 10:28 a.m., the North Tower also fell, burying hundreds more under a mountain of rubble.
In total, 343 FDNY members died that day, including the Chief of Department, senior officers, and entire engine and ladder companies. It was the single largest loss of life in FDNY history and one of the most devastating days for any emergency service in the world.
In the days and weeks that followed, the FDNY led search and recovery efforts at Ground Zero, working tirelessly in dangerous conditions. Their bravery and sacrifice became a symbol of resilience and heroism in the face of unprecedented tragedy.
The response of the FDNY on 9/11 remains a defining chapter in the department’s legacy—a testament to duty, courage, and selfless service under unimaginable circumstances.
Help Preserve their Legacy
WE NEED YOUR HELP
Family Fire Company Foundation needs your help to continue our mission of preserving the legacy of FDNY that was forged through supreme sacrifice during the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and through rescue and recovery at "Ground Zero" over the days, weeks, and months afterwards.
We're Looking for Member Stations
Become a Family Fire Co Member Station
Family Fire Co Foundation Member Stations serve as the logistical backbone for our ability to move Tower Ladder 9 and Engine 33 around and through various regions of the United States. The purpose of a member station is to establish relationships with career and volunteer fire departments willing to provide safe haven parking and minor logistical support for Tower Ladder 9 and Engine 33 when requested and able. There is no cost to the member station to volunteer and that station will be recognized in the Foundations annual report provided to the Board of Directors, volunteers, and stakeholders.
For more information, please contact Mike McGee at mmcgee@familyfireco.org.
Family Fire Company Partners
10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services LLC
10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services LLC
10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services LLC
Located in New Holland, PA
During our recent maintenance trip up to Ladder 9 in PA, we had to make a cold call into 10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services, an authorized Seagrave service center, in Hew Holland seeking help with Ladder 9's Aerialscope ladder that was thought to be stuck at 20 degrees out of cradle. Randy, Jon, and everyone at 10-8 were exceptionally helpful and professional, and they took the time to help diagnose, troubleshoot, and even made a site visit to see the truck firsthand. 10-8 is our partner of choice in our mission to fully restore and preserve Tower Ladder 9.
Fired Up Leather Works
10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services LLC
10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services LLC
Located in Lexington County, SC
Tony Jumpp is a career firefighter and great friend of Family Fire Company and our mission. Tony will be helping Family Fire Co Foundation with some unique projects in the future. He has a fantastic line of hand-tooled, hand-stained and painted holsters, wallets, and jewelry and is always open for new unique challenges and one-of-kind projects. All of his work are originals created from cured/tanned sides.
Follow Tony on Facebook.
Red 7 Tees
10-8 Emergency Vehicle Services LLC
Red 7 Tees
Located in Crestview, FL
Red 7 Tees, and veteran owned and operated company, produces Family Fire Company Foundation merchandise and memorabilia supporting our mission. With their easy-to-use website, friendly service, and competitive pricing, they are our vendor of choice.
Check out Red 7 Tees website and follow them on social media.