ROCKLAND — Rockland Professional Firefighters used a new start time as they incorporated the theme of timelines into their annual September 11 ceremony at the Fire Department.

The Rockland ceremony has traditionally begun at 9 a.m. each year since the day hijackers used planes to cause mass destruction 21 years ago, forcing a new era into United States history.

“We’ve always wanted this [9 a.m.] to be a convenient time for a ceremony,” said Firefighter Carl Anderson, who leads the remembrance.

Each year, speeches have focused on specific themes and concepts, sharing stories that might have bounced around in the frame of events. However, over the past couple of years, organizers have been reminded by others of the timeline for when things happened.

“It felt that it was necessary, looking at other memorials, that we do it in more of a timed remembrance, so that when we did the moment of silence, that it actually was at a specific time that was meaningful.”

So, this year, the ceremony began at 8:30 a.m., allowing Anderson to share specific stories of survival in the moments when they actually occurred. These stories were paced so that at 8:46, when the first Twin Tower was hit, today’s audience silently reflected for a moment. And then again for the second tower, and the Pentagon.

For year 21, on-duty members of Thomaston and South Thomaston EMS attended today’s remembrance, along with Rockland Fire and EMS, police, Mayor Ed Glaser, City Manager Tom Luttrell, and City Councilor Louise McLellan-Ruf. American Legion Rev. Dave Franclemont gave the opening benediction, and a Legion trumpet player provided a solemn finish.

“We had a lot of inquiries, a lot of emails making sure we were still doing it,” said Anderson. “It’s still a good turnout.”

Rockland firefighters will be attending the Elk’s Club annual ceremony at 5 p.m., this afternoon.

Reach Sarah Thompson at news@penbaypilot.com