At the September 11, 2007 Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting the Fire Chief and other members of the fire department honored the fallen firefighters of New York who perished on 9/11 by giving a reading and tolling of the bell.


“Tradition tells us that the life of a firefighter was closely associated with the ringing of a bell.”

“As they began their hours of duty, it was the bell that started them off, and so throughout the day and night, each alarm sounded by a bell, which called them to fight fire and place their life in jeopardy for the good of their fellow man.”

“When the fire was out, and the alarm had come to an end, the bell rang three times, to signal the end.”

“Now our fellow firefighters who have left us, have completed their tasks, their duties well done, ... and the bell rings nine times, to signal that they have completed their tour of duty, and are at rest, at home

·     Honor Guard Member rings the bell three times three, followed by Fireman’s Prayer

“When I am called to duty, GOD, wherever flames may rage;

Give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age;

Help me embrace a little child before it’s too late;

Or save an older person from the horror of that fate;

Enable me to be alert and hear the weakest shout;

And, quickly and effectively to put the fire out;

I want to guard my every neighbor and protect his property;

And, if according to your will, I have to lose my life;

Please bless with your protecting hand, my children and my wife.”