Waterford Township Fire Department Marked 25 Years Since 9/11

Atco, N.J. — September 11 — The Waterford Township Fire Department observed the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, by honoring the 2,977 individuals who lost their lives in the attacks and the first responders who sacrificed their lives while assisting others.

This date remains significant for the emergency services community. Approximately 1,000 firefighters and around 2,000 police officers arrived at the World Trade Center, with over 100 ambulances dispatched to the scene within the first hour. This response became the largest emergency deployment in New York City's history.

According to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, 343 firefighters from the FDNY, 23 NYPD officers, and 37 Port Authority Police Department officers lost their lives during the attacks. In total, 441 first responders were killed on September 11.

The effects of the attacks extended far beyond the events of that day. Thousands of people, including responders and survivors, were exposed to dust, debris, and other harmful substances during the attacks and subsequent recovery efforts. Many of these individuals later developed health issues linked to their exposure.

The Waterford Township Fire Department, situated at 2121 Auburn Avenue in Atco, continued to pay tribute to the firefighters, police officers, emergency medical services personnel, and civilians who were lost.

Twenty-five years later, the department reflected on the service of those who gave their lives and emphasized the importance of supporting fellow responders.