IVC and first responders pay their respects to 9/11 victims.

It’s a day that many won’t forget. Before classes began on campus, faculty members and students at Imperial Valley College (IVC), as well as first responders, paid tribute to the thousands of lives lost in the acts of terror of 9/11.

With the American flag draped in the sky and captivating photos displayed in front of the school, IVC Superintendent and President, Dr. Martha Garcia said the memorial served as a reminder of how 9/11 brought the country together.

“Until you see pictures such as these, can you really correlate the tragedy.”

The schools hope is to instill the same courage in students training to be first responders, like those who risked their lives that day.

Garcia added, “Having the students here reflects our commitment and our responsibility to prepares tomorrow’s professionals.”

The tragedy changed our national security.

Army Veteran, Tracy Rascoe said, “Civilians now can’t get on base without proper pre-authorization, pre-investigation. You can’t just drive on a base anymore. .”

Imperial County Fire Department Fire Captain, Bobby Duenas hopes to carry on the legacy of the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives to save others.

“They were doing what they swore to do and that was, protect the public and render aid. And it was courageous what they did.”