San Francisco firefighters honor victims of September 11th

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Tributes are taking place all over the Bay Area in memory of those who died, when terrorists attacked America 13 years ago.

San Francisco firefighters stopped what they were doing and stood at attention Thursday morning at 6:59 a.m., the exact moment 13 years ago that the south tower of the World Trade Center collapsed after firefighters had rushed in to help. They then read each name of the 343 firefighters who died that day. Those who spoke the names of the dead said it was an emotional responsibility.

"It's an honor," Robert Dotson, a San Francisco firefighter said. "You feel privileged you are here to share in honoring those that have passed us."

The fire chief made sure to include her fire recruits in this ceremony, many of whom were teenagers or younger when the terrorists attacked.

"It's really important for them to know how close fire service is. How serious our work and mission is and incorporate them early into what their oath means," said San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White.

Although this ceremony focuses on the firefighters who were killed, Mayor Ed Lee also wanted to honor two San Franciscans who are considered heroes from that day -- Betty Ong, who was on Flight 11 and Mark Bingham from Flight 93.

"Betty made that call to let people know the attack was on and kept with it and didn't panic," Lee said. "So did Mark Bingham when he rushed to make sure they steered the plane to keep it from being used for its intended use."

LOCAL BAY AREA 9/11 EVENTS

San Francisco

September 11th Remembrance Ceremony held by the San Francisco Fire Department takes place at all 43 Fire Stations. Event begins at 6:45 a.m.

Hayward

9/11 Candlelight Vigil begins 8:00 p.m. at Hayward 9/11 Memorial. 22738 Mission Boulevard - Hayward, California 94541.

Union City

9/11 event at Flight 93 Memorial site begins 10:00 a.m. at Sugar Mill Landing Park (corner of Alvarado-Niles and Dyer Streets).

Lafayette

The Lafayette Flag Brigade's 13th Annual 9/11 Remembrance and Candlelight Vigil begins at 4p.m. El Curtola Bridge, Hwy 24 overcrossing @ 680 Freeway, Lafayette

Livermore/Pleasanton

Fire Department Hosts 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Fire Station Number One, 3560 Nevada Street in Pleasanton. Event begins at 9:45 a.m.

San Jose

Memorial service to honor those lives lost takes place at the Oak Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park at 6p.m. 300 Curtner Ave, San Jose, CA 95125.