DeKALB | Members of DeKalb and Sycamore Fire Departments slowly walked down the hill to the Healing Garden as the ceremony for the Sept. 11 memorial began.

About 200 people from the DeKalb and Sycamore area attended Saturday afternoon to participate in the memorial service for the ninth anniversary of Sept. 11 at the Kishwaukee Hospital, 1 Kish Hospital Drive.

DeKalb Fire Chaplain Dean Pierce told the crowd why it was important for them to be there.

“We need times like this to get together and reflect,” Pierce said.

DeKalb Fire Chief Bruce Harrison said he felt patriotic about the anniversary.

“I’m reminded today that it is a great day to be an American,” Harrison said.

For Capt. Anthony Cox, of the DeKalb Fire Department, Sept. 11 means a lot to him.

“343 firefighters lost their lives,” Cox said. “I will never forget the sacrifices that were made that day. “

Jack Knudson, Sycamore resident and Korean and Vietnam War veteran, came to show he still remembers what happened.

“I’m here as my way of remembrance to all those who died on Sept. 11,” Knudson said.

Laurie Hartwig of Genoa said she felt the Healing Garden was the perfect place for the memorial.

“It’s a beautiful and peaceful setting that’s perfect for the occasion,” Hartwig said.

Harrison ended the memorial service by giving those in attendance something to discuss.

“If another attack happens, are you prepared? Could you sustain?” Harrison asked. “Think about that as you drive back home.”