Thursday marks the 7th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001.
Like cities across the country, Anchorage held a 9/11 memorial ceremony honoring those 3,000 lives lost, and the 346 fire-fighters who died trying to save lives.
Capt. Alex Boyd is an Anchorage Fireman. "As we all come to work every single day we are doing it because we love this job, it's a calling in what we do."

Two hijacked commercial planes smashed into the the world trade center the morning of September 11, killing close to 3,000 people.
A third plane flew into the pentagon, and a fourth plane went down in a Pennsylvania field.

Colleagues say it's not only a time to remember those firefighters who died in the line of duty but those close to them.
Fire Chief Craig Goodrich says, "as important to all that is the larger piece is to support the families of those people who passed on because they are the people who have to carry the burden."

More than 500 flags surrounding ladders shaped like the twin towers represent all those who lost their lives in the line of duty. Some try to make an appearance every year to pay respect to those families who lost a loved one.
"My husband is a retired fire captain," says Janie Clayton, "and you know i am fortunate that he is still here and i just can't imagine what the families have gone through, through all this time."

After the memorial ceremony many took a step in the first "freedom walk" recognizing all members in uniform. "Today is not only to remember," says Anchorage mayor Mark Begich, "but it's also a tribute to those that are working today and making our country safer."
Proving that Alaska is now more committed than ever to protect our freedom.