WAYNESBORO, Va -- Tuesday afternoon's appreciation lunch started at Summit Square Retirement Community in Waynesboro. Participants remembered fire and rescue workers who died 11 years ago responding to the 9/11 emergency.

Capt. Andrew Holloway works with Waynesboro's Fire Department and he described how the appreciation lunch made him feel.

“It definitely feels good to be appreciated. That they stop for a moment and remember, think about what you do, and give back,” said Capt. Holloway.

Neighbors, including Summit Square Director Annie Fellers, honored fire and rescue crews.

“We thought today was the perfect day to give back to our volunteers and our local community. That's our heroes who make our lives safer every day,” said Fellers.

Several fire and rescue crews from around Waynesboro went to the lunch to be honored, and they described how Sept. 11 has a special meaning for them.

“It gives me new appreciation for not only what I do, but I think about other police, fire and EMS friends and so forth, and appreciation for our community and what the other emergency responders give back,” said Capt. Holloway.

Fellers hopes neighbors will remember the American spirit that came through after the attacks.

“As the nation remembers that horrible event of 9-11-01, we wanted this to be a positive day to say we're still strong Americans, and we're giving back to each other,” said Fellers.

Capt. Holloway knows his crew makes a difference every day and he said remembering 9/11 also gives community members a chance to recognize local emergency responders.

“Tragic events have happened is a reminder of the profession we have, and hopefully we do give back to the community.”

Tuesday's appreciation lunch for fire and rescue workers included several speakers, who told stories of where they were 11 years ago.

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