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It was 9:59 on 11 September,
When silence slipped over old Firehouse 3.
We put down our chores and we paused to remember
Our comrades departed, all three-forty-three.

Chief rang the bell as we lay down some flowers
On top of the flag of this land of the free,
To honor our brothers who climbed up those towers,
And gave their own lives so that others could flee.


Max was confused and asked, “What’s with our phone?
And why is the Chaplain now talking of Heaven?”
Gus turned to his friend and said, “Not 9-1-1,”
Then he took him aside to explain 9/11.

The silence continued ’til 10:28,
The time that the second one finally gave.
We’ll always remember the hour and date,
And those firemen valiant, unselfish, and brave.


“As we honor our heroes we’re touched by their love.
The flame of their courage is still burning strong.
God surely smiles as He looks from above,”
Then our Chaplain recited the 23rd Psalm.

“The LORD is my shepherd and I shall not want,
He leads me to pastures and peaceful blue ponds.
In the valley of shadows He shines like the dawn,”
Then he led us in prayer and reflection and song.


Those dogs came on back and joined up with us men,
As Chief placed a band made of black on his arm.
We got down on our knees as the bells rang again,
To remember the call to their final alarm.

“They never looked back as they raced to the blaze,”
As a tear slipped on down from Chief’s sturdy green eyes.
Then we all turned to Max in great wonder amazed,
As that tiny young Beagle caught all by surprise.


“Chief, why are you looking so sad?
Those men entered in through the gates.
They’re finally at home with their Heavenly Dad,
Living forever in Christ’s own estate.

So remember the joy when you ponder this date,
For God’s in control and makes everything right.
His love is the power that conquers all hate,
And darkness has nowhere to hide from His light.”


“How did you learn this my dear little friend?
You seemed so confused when I tried to explain,”
It seemed far too much for young Max to take in,
And Gus thought his efforts had been all in vain.

“Gus, there isn’t much to say,
And it wasn’t very hard.
I just took some time to pray,
And I then listened to my heart.”


David J Allen
September 11, 2006


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