The 9/11 ceremony on Monday evening was small but solemn at the Daniels Family Funerals on Sara Road.

The ceremony started with a prayer, then Mayor Gregg Hull read his speech and proclamation.

“I think we got a different view after 9/11 of first responders and the job that they’re called to do. It is a job that not everyone is brave enough to do,” Hull said.

He went on to express the necessity of passing on the education of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to kids.

“We’re just one generation away from forgetting because we failed to teach. We’re one generation away from our kids completely forgetting,” Hull added.

Fire Chief James DeFillippo also spoke about the days around 9/11 and said he can’t remember them.

“There’s nothing significant that plays a role in in my life on September 10th. But on September 11th, I think we can all remember that day and know exactly where we were. That holds significant value to me, and remembering the 343 firefighters that did make the ultimate sacrifice that day,” DeFillippo said.

He added that he feels guilty when people thank him for his service.

“I look back and I feel guilty for from when people say, ‘Thank you for your service.’ I think about what those firefighters in New York City did that day without hesitation,” he said.

He went on to explain the significance of ringing the bell.

“Historically, the toll of the bell summoned  members to the station, signaled the beginning of the ship, notified departments of a call for help. It indicated a call was complete and the unit had returned to the station. Departments also sounded a series of bells when a firefighter died in the line of duty to alert all members that the comrade had made the ultimate sacrifice,” DeFillippo said.

Members of Rio Rancho Fire Rescue then each took a turn in ringing the bell that is at the graveyard.

Shortly after, bagpipes played “Amazing Grace” and the ceremony ended with another prayer.