In commemoration of the 7th anniversary of September 11, 2001 terrorist attack. I would like to repost my last year blog for this commemoration at our homepage www.pasig-alliance.co.nr. This how I remember 9/11.

6 Years ago, I was in Maybunga volunteer back then, on duty on our headquarters. We got word something going on New York so we tuned in to ZOE channel (now QTV). There, we were kind of confused of the unfamiliar landmark. Where is the other tower? The other tower was burning intensely and we wonder were is the other tower? Some of the guys joked lets go there its a "its a 10-78, let's go!" the rest chuckled. Then throughout the coverage they replayed the collapsed of the south tower. We could not believe that it happened. Then suddenly the north tower collapsed, and we were silent and it was not a joke anymore. We all thinking of the same thing. There could be hundreds of people and firefighters, rescuers and EMT's are gone!

"If this happen to us, it could be us. For sure it could be us, and we firefighters could not stop us and somehow we have to go up and make a difference." Commented my Fire OIC back then. And throughout the night we were glued on TV. and we all silent and sleepy trying to keep awake and wondering what happen to those firefighters.

As the coverage unfolds and could not forget the scene. Were two firefighters as if they did not seen each other for a long while, hugged each other in which it was later called a "glad to be alive hug" We were touched on that scene, and made our eyes in tears.

Although we are different nationality but we had one common creed as firefighters, to save lives and property.

We will never forget!

Let me once again say these prayers for our comrades, not only the 343 Ney York firefighters but to all firefighters everywhere, who made an ultimate sacrifice.

When I am called to duty, God, wherever flames may rage,
give me strength to save a life, whatever be its age.

Help me to embrace a little child before it's too late,
or save an older person from the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert to hear the weakest shout,
and quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me,
to guard my neighbor and protect his property.

And if according to your will I have to lose my life,
bless with your protecting hand my loving family from strife.
— The Firefighter's Prayer