San Diego is joining communities across the country this Friday, September 11, in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks, a day dedicated to remembering the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives and honoring the first responders who took part in rescue and recovery efforts.

One of the city’s main commemorative events will take place this afternoon aboard the USS Midway Museum, where local officials, firefighters, first responders and community members will gather to remember the victims and keep the memory of that day alive.

The ceremony is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on the flight deck of the historic aircraft carrier. The museum will offer free admission to those attending the commemoration specifically between 1:45 and 3 p.m.

The tribute will include the presentation of the colors, the national anthem and the reading of the names of first responders who died as a result of the attacks. The ceremony will also feature the ringing of bells and a performance of “Taps,” marking one of the most solemn moments of the event.

As part of the tribute, a San Diego Fire-Rescue Department helicopter flyover, a 21-gun salute and a water display by a Harbor Police fireboat are also scheduled.

The commemoration will bring together members of several emergency response organizations, including retired members of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), as well as representatives from the San Diego and Nacional City fire departments.

An Anniversary Marked by Remembrance

This year’s anniversary carries special significance as the nation marks a quarter century since the September 11, 2001, attacks. That morning, four commercial airplanes were hijacked. Two were flown into the World Trade Center towers in New York City, another struck the Pentagon, and a fourth crashed in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to regain control of the aircraft.

In addition to those killed in the attacks, thousands of people who participated in rescue, cleanup and recovery efforts have since faced health problems associated with exposure to toxic substances at the affected sites.

In San Diego, the day also highlights the strong relationship between the community and its emergency responders. The commemorations aim to remind younger generations of the importance of honoring those who lost their lives and recognizing the sacrifice of those who rushed to help during one of the most significant tragedies in recent U.S. history.

The city is also hosting events such as the San Diego 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, an event that uses the challenge of climbing stairs as a symbol of the effort made by firefighters who climbed the World Trade Center towers while trying to rescue people trapped inside.

Twenty-five years after the attacks, San Diego is taking part in a nationwide day of reflection, remembrance and recognition, with honoring the victims remaining at the heart of the commemorations.