SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. - The San Luis Obispo Fire Department (SLOFD) will host its annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Friday, September 11, 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks and honoring the 343 firefighters, 60 law enforcement officers, and other emergency responders who made the ultimate sacrifice that day.
The ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m. at San Luis Obispo Fire Station 1 (2160 Santa Barbara Ave) in front of the 9/11 memorial.
The morning will include a flyover start by CHP and Presentation of Colors by Central Coast Pipes and Drums. At 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, SLOFD will conduct a ceremonial ringing of the bell, followed by speeches from Fire Chief Harris, Mayor Stewart, and Police Chief Scott and the placement of roses in honor and memory of the fallen emergency responders. The ceremony will reflect on the lives lost, the courage of first responders, and the lasting impact of September 11 on the emergency services community.
The ceremony will also feature Taps, performed by Michael Smiley and Al Streder; the National Anthem, sung by Finley Pratt; an invocation by Chaplain James Johnson Hill; and “America the Beautiful,” performed by the SLOHS Chamber Singers.
“Twenty-five years later, we continue to remember the lives lost and the extraordinary courage demonstrated by first responders on September 11,” said Fire Chief Harris. “This ceremony gives our community an opportunity to pause, remember, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving others.”
Community members are invited to attend the ceremony and join SLOFD and SLOPD in remembering the heroes of September 11.
For those who are unable to attend the ceremony, 403 white roses will be outside Station 1 throughout the day. Community members are welcome to stop by, pay their respects, and leave a rose in honor of the fallen.
Ceremony Details
What: SLOFD Annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony – 25th Anniversary
When: Friday, September 11, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.
Where: San Luis Obispo Fire Station 1, 2160 Santa Barbara Avenue
Community members: Welcome to attend
Please be advised that road closures and detours will be in place during the event. Plan ahead, follow designated detours, and obey all posted signage.
For media inquires, please contact:
Joe Little
Emergency Manager / Public Information Officer
Fire Department
City of San Luis Obispo
jlittle@slocity.org 