McAllen first responders hold 9/11 remembrance ceremony

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — First responders in McAllen gathered Wednesday morning to remember the lives that were sacrified and lost on September 11th, 2001.

This year marks the 23rd anniversary since the deadly terrorist attack that killed 2,996 people including first responders.

McAllen fire, police and EMS paid tribute to the responders during a ceremony at the city's central fire station.

"We're here once again to remember the sacrifice of those that perished," said Juan Angel Gloria, City of McAllen Fire Chief. "Nothing was the same after that day. It's very important that we continue to to recognize and remember those sacrifices."

The deadly attack led to changes in first responder training and response nationwide, including the Rio Grande Valley.

"We have professional emergency responders that are ready to respond and step up to that level," Gloria continued. "Your first responders, police, fire, EMS and emergency communication dispatchers, they're all ready to respond. They're trained and equipped and ready to protect."