The Fire Department Offers Free Admission to Honor the 9/11 25th Anniversary.
By Brynn Schwartz
This Friday marks 25 years since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Pierce Fire and Rescue is marking the anniversary in a special way. The department is offering free admission to the Friday night football game for any first responder, nurse, doctor, or military member who shows ID at the gate.
This tribute is meant to honor the 343 firefighters and many other first responders who lost their lives on 9/11, as well as the families and communities affected by the tragedy.
“September 11 is a day that reminds all first responders why we do what we do,” Kelli Sindt, Pierce volunteer firefighter, said. “Offering free admission to first responders is just a small way for us to come together to support one another and honor that brotherhood.”
The fire department states that even though first responders often work for different agencies and communities, 9/11 is a day that brings them together.
“We may come from different departments and different communities, but on September 11 we all remember that we're part of the same family,” Sindt said.
“In honor and remembrance of those lost 25 years ago, we as a department decided to provide free admission to first responders, nurses and doctors, and military personnel for the game Friday night. It's a small gesture to those who continue to serve to show that we will never forget,” Rod Schwartz, also a Pierce volunteer firefighter, said.
“We’re fortunate here in Pierce to have a community that supports its first responders and takes care of one another. Many of the people serving our area are your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members. They’re the same people sitting beside you in the stands, shopping at the grocery store, or waving as they drive by. When the pager goes off or someone calls 911, they put everything else aside and go help a neighbor who may be having the worst day of their life,” Joshua Mattson, Pierce volunteer firefighter, stated. “That spirit of service is something worth recognizing. So this Friday, we hope our fellow first responders will come out, enjoy a night of Bluejay football, and spend some time together as a community. Most importantly, we hope everyone takes a moment to remember why we do this. To those who answered the call on September 11, 2001, to those who never made it home, and to every first responder who continues to answer that call today. We remember you. We honor you. And we will never forget.”
