Sept. 11 first responders to attend B.C. border ceremony on anniversary of attacks

New York first responders who served on Sept. 11, 2001, are expected to be among the guests at a British Columbia memorial marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks.

Organizers say hundreds of first responders will attend the annual Northwest 9/11 Memorial ceremony at the Peace Arch monument on the B.C.-U.S. border, alongside military and border officers and dignitaries from both countries.

The ceremony will remember those killed in the attacks and recognize the service and sacrifice that have continued in the years since, organizers say. A U.S. Homeland Security helicopter flypast is also planned.

The park straddles the border between Surrey, B.C., and Blaine, Wash. Organizers describe the location as an enduring expression of friendship and solidarity between Canada and the United States.

Two retired New York police officers and two retired firefighters who served on Sept. 11, 2001, are expected to attend.