Bannock County remembers those who died on 9/11

Wednesday marks one of the darkest days in American history. It is the 18th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Wednesday morning, firefighters, law enforcement and community members gathered at the Bannock County Courthouse to pay tribute to those who died.

Bannock County is nearly 2,500 miles away from ground zero, however local first responders say the tragedy hits a lot closer to home.

“We put our lives after that of others and that common thread brings that fraternal order of relationship, and so we empathize greatly deep level,” assistant chief for Pocatello Fire Dept. Travis Smith said.

Wednesday’s ceremony represented more than just a memorial Bannock County Commissioner, Steven Brown said. Instead, it is a day to reflect on American values, regardless of a political party

“It doesn’t matter who you talk to, they remember the exact place and the exact time these events unfolded,” Brown said. “As a result, there is this unifying affect because we experience it together as Americans.”