Firefighter memorial brings back memories of 9/11 - WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, Sports

It's known as the last call—a bell symbolizing the lives of those lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

At the Wisconsin State Firefighter Memorial in Wisconsin Rapids, it's about keeping their memory alive.

"Today is about honoring those nearly 3,000 people that died," event organizer Justin Herman said.

Of those, 343 of them were firefighters.

"You like to think you move past it, but it brings back tough memories," retired Lt. Steve Quam said.

Many remembered that day 11 years ago. Some, like Quam, say there's a special connection.

"We have this common bond, of what we do and why we do it," he said.

Others say it's a day they'll never forget.

"Yesterday, it's like it all happened yesterday," Linda Sedall said.

The memorial wall in Wisconsin Rapids lists the names of more than 200 fallen firefighters from around the state. Organizers say it's a perfect location to honor those who also lost their lives serving.

"They do so much and we don't thank them enough," Sedall said.

The ceremony ended with a walk, one that was mostly silent. Some say they can't really put the events of 9/11 into words.

"It takes your breath away," Quam said.

And a piece of the World Trade Center is held inside the memorial—a reminder of that day.