On this day of remembrance, we honor the tradition of the tolling bell. Throughout history, bells have held deep significance in the fire service. Long before radios and cell phones, they called firefighters to action and marked the end of an incident. They also serve a solemn purpose—when a firefighter falls in the line of duty, the bell is struck in a series of three sets of five chimes.

Today, we ring the bell to honor the brave responders who gave their lives 24 years ago on September 11, 2001. FF/EMT Delory tolls the bell in tribute to their sacrifice and in remembrance of their courage.