Belton Area Walk Remembers 9-11 First Responders

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

As the anniversary of September 11, 2001, approaches, the Rock Springs Fire Department and Belton City Fire Department on Sunday hosted their annual memorial walk honoring the first responders who died in the line of duty. More than a simple march, the event has evolved into a powerful and public act of remembrance, ensuring that the legacy of those who gave their lives is not forgotten.

Sunday’s 2.5-mile walk began at Rocksprings Fire Department and ended at the Belton City Fire Department where participants joined in the ringing of the bell, a solemn tradition honoring the memory of the individuals who died that day.

This event was open to the public, and included firefighters, first responders, military personnel, and civilians, who were afforded the opportunity to reflect on the heroism on display on 9/11 and to remember both those who lost their lives and those who survived.

“We’re here to honor the firefighters, police officers, and all the heroes that died on that day,” said Anderson County Councilman Greg Elgin, who is also Rock Springs Fire Chief. “To have something close where everybody can come out and walk and remember what happened every year, to remind them and try to keep it fresh so everybody understands what happened that day because our world changed forever. Not only America, but the whole world changed forever because of that day. And it's just a great thing for everybody to come out in our local community to remember.”

“I was with the highway patrol when that happened and our whole job changed and it basically changed everything,” said Elgin. “So, it is a reminder for not only us that have been around a while, but these young guys to what happened that day and always be alert to things that could happen.”