A tribute honoring the first responders and civilians who lost their lives during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks will take place 7:20 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at all Santa Maria City Fire Stations.

The city of Santa Maria would like to remember those that have passed away, those who survived, and those who have been otherwise impacted by the tragedies surrounding the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks in New York, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania, the city said.

“During this special time of remembrance, we honor and thank all who gave the ultimate sacrifice 24 years ago. We will never forget,” the city said.

Firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, military personnel, and the public are invited to attend the tribute to reflect on the events that took place.

The Santa Maria tribute is modeled after recommended protocols established by the International Fire Service and adopted by the fire chiefs of Santa Barbara County. The following activities are included:

7:20 a.m.:
Fire apparatus will be pulled out on front drives at each fire station:  
Fire Station 1 – 300 W. Cook St.
Fire Station 2 – 416 W. Carmen Lane
Fire Station 3 – 2305 N. Preisker Lane
Fire Station 4 – 2637 S. College Drive
Fire Station 5 – 1670 E. Donovan Road
Fire Station 6 – 3339 Terminal Drive

7:30 a.m.

• Attendees will be asked to gather around the station flagpole.
• Fire station tones will be followed with a brief message of remembrance.  
• Lowering of station flags to half-staff. (Flags will be returned to full staff at 7:30 p.m.)  
• A traditional series of horn blasts (three sets of five blasts) from the station fire engine.  
• One minute of silence.  
• Brief comment from ranking officer at each of the stations.  
• Ceremony concludes.