ORONO -- First responders statewide are commemorating the brave individuals who lost their lives in the line of duty on Sept. 11, 2001. Dozens gathered at the Orono Fire Department to honor those heroic acts.

"Let this day be a reminder that we do not forget," said Orono Fire Chief Tom Higgins in his remarks.

It's been more than two decades since the tragic events of Sept. 11, but for many first responders, the memories of that day still linger.

"We were actually on duty working that day, and watched everything unfold from our training room," said Deputy Fire Chief Bryan Hardison, Orono Fire Department.

"The next day I went back to work to work my regular shift and really the fire service changed immensely even in that one day," said Chief Higgins.

More than 300 firefighters lost th

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