On the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, first responders from across East Texas gathered at the East Texas Food Bank to observe the National Day of Service. Members of the Tyler Fire Department, Tyler Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Christus paramedics, UT Health East Texas paramedics, and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office volunteered their morning on September 11, 2026, to honor the lives lost on 9/11 and affirm the ongoing spirit of community service.
The volunteers spent the morning actively assisting the East Texas Food Bank in its mission to provide food and essential resources to individuals and families throughout the region. Their collective service underscored a powerful message: the courage and commitment first responders exhibited on September 11, 2001, continues to be demonstrated daily by men and women serving their local communities.
David Emerson, CEO of the East Texas Food Bank, reflected on the significance of the date. He stated that everyone present remembered where they were on Sept. 11, 2001, a day when the world changed instantly. Emerson recalled witnessing the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of first responders who rushed toward danger to save others, with some making the ultimate sacrifice.
Twenty-five years later, the East Texas Food Bank joined these local first responders to collectively remember those who perished, acknowledge the families permanently altered by the tragedy, and recognize the continuous sacrifices of those who protect and serve today. Emerson emphasized that while the day brings remembrance for lives lost and families changed, it also highlights that the commitment and sacrifice of first responders continues daily. He detailed the demanding nature of their work, noting they "run toward situations others run from," often working long hours, missing time with their families, and bearing responsibilities that many may not fully comprehend. Their motivation, Emerson explained, stems from a deep belief in serving and protecting their communities.
For the East Texas Food Bank, hosting first responders for a day of volunteer service presented a tangible opportunity to honor their dedication. By serving alongside them, the Food Bank aimed to assist neighbors in need while expressing profound gratitude. Emerson conveyed this sentiment directly to the volunteers, stating the Food Bank wanted them to know how deeply grateful they were. He added that their courage inspires, their sacrifices matter, and their example truly defines service, compassion, and patriotism.
The National Day of Service annually encourages Americans to uphold the legacy of Sept. 11 through various acts of kindness, volunteerism, and community engagement. The participation of East Texas's local first responders at the Food Bank served as a clear demonstration of how this legacy can be carried forward through dedicated service to others.
The East Texas Food Bank expressed its sincere gratitude to the Tyler Fire Department, Tyler Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Christus paramedics, UT Health East Texas paramedics, and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. Their commitment to the community and their choice to spend this significant anniversary giving back to East Texas neighbors were recognized and appreciated. The event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between community safety and community welfare in East Texas.
