Philly officials ring fireman’s bell to honor 9/11 victims, including first responders

The city of Philadelphia held a ceremony Tuesday morning to remember those who died as a result of the 9/11 terror attacks 17 years ago.

The solemn event at the Betsy Ross House in Old City included ringing of the fireman’s bell, the symbol of coming home for those who die in the line of duty, in memory of the 23 New York City police officers and the 37 New York Port Authority police officers, who were among the 2,819 people killed that day.

Bell rung to commemorate 9-11 at Betsy ross House pic.twitter.com/KS8YlYzFM3

— Tom MacDonald–WHYY (@TMacDonaldWHYY) September 11, 2018

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The men and women who protect Philadelphia do so understanding they may not come home after a shift, said Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel.

“We sign up for that in our business. It’s part of our ethos, it’s part of our creed, it’s part of our oath,” Thiel said. “What we do is help people, no matter what. We don’t check their papers. We don’t care where they are from, and we don’t care where they are going. If they need help, we are there.”

Police Commissioner Richard Ross said 9/11 is a date that will never be forgotten.

“Let us honor this day with courage, strength and sacrifice, all of which are hallmarks of who we are today,” he said.

The Philadelphia Police and Fire Pipes and Drums unit marched down Arch Street to the ceremony, and a member of the group played taps to conclude the event.

9-11 memorial in phl pic.twitter.com/zKDX8Zc8py

— Tom MacDonald–WHYY (@TMacDonaldWHYY) September 11, 2018