GREEN COVE SPRINGS — Onlookers focused through a sea of faces on Friday, Sept. 11, as  nearly 100 first responders trailed through downtown Green Cove Springs.

In their uniforms, they walked together in unison, standing in place for those who couldn't do the same. Because in 2001, they made the ultimate sacrifice.

That morning, the county hosted its annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony.

It's been 25 years since the terrorist attacks that killed 2,977 victims, including those aboard four commercial airliners, inside the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and hundreds of emergency workers. Yet, the pain and memories still linger.

That's why, in a joint effort between Clay County Fire Rescue, the Clay County Sheriff's Office and Green Cove Springs and Orange Park police departments, as well as other area agencies, members of the community gathered at the Spring Park Gazebo in remembrance and reflection of the fateful day.

"[It was] a day that forever changed our nation and touched countless lives.  We honor the extraordinary courage shown by the men and women who chose to run toward danger, while others sought safety," said County Commission Vice Chair John Sgromolo.

"Their selfless acts remind us of the very best of the American spirit."

Local, state and federal officials read the names of the more than 400 firefighters, law enforcement officers and emergency responders who put their lives on the line that day, including those from the FDNY, Port Authority, NYPD and EMTs/paramedics.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was also present and gave special remarks. He said that in honoring those who risked their lives, it's important to remain clear-eyed when it comes to foreign conflict.

For this reason, in working with members of the legislature, he said he is proud that Florida is one of the few states that helms a robust Sept. 11 curriculum.

"It's important that the young people in this country know the truth about what happened that day and who was responsible for it. But also draw inspiration from the first responders and the civilians who risked so much and gave so much there."

Oftentimes overlooked, DeSantis said it's critical to also recognize the long-term impact. To this day, more people have died from 9/11-related illnesses than did as a direct result of the attacks.

"In many respects, this has been an ongoing terrorist attack because people that were in the buildings that day, the first responders that went in both that day and in the days, weeks and months after, have suffered serious health problems."

"Be thankful for those people and the sacrifice that they did. Not only on that day but in the days after that."

To close out the ceremony, a local bagpipe group played "Amazing Grace" as the Clay County Fire Rescue Honor Guard struck the Four Fives - a historic New York Fire Service tradition used to honor a line-of-duty death that started in the 1800s. Initially used to broadcast major historical tragedies, today, the bell tolls during memorial services and anniversary tributes — signifying a firefighter's final alarm.

And a job well done.