A tribute to the heroes of September 11th

It's 9 - 1 - 1 and there's a 9 - 1 - 1 dispatching heroes to the scene.
The air is filled with smoke and fire and panic-stricken screams.
Some are called and some are caught and others just rush in
With saving lives their foremost thought our heroes now begin.

In shock, we stop to watch the unthinkable unfold.
But even in the horror, we hear the stories told.
Great accounts of heroes slowly filter through
Of just plain folks resolved to do, whatever they can do.

Some proudly wear the uniforms of air, police and fire.
And some just wear their business suits, some casual attire.
They began the day as Moms and Dads, associates and friends,
As daughters, sons and brothers, off to work again.

Adversity, some say, introduces you to you.
And most don't know they're heroes, until the call comes through.
There's a fire chief who safely leads out several of his men
And knowing more are still inside, goes right back in again.

There's a clergyman who dies while descending from the heights
Because he stops to comfort and give the Last of Rites.
On another floor most have fled but remaining 'til the end
Is a hero at the side of his quadriplegic friend.

Two other heroes fight the clock, undaunted by the danger,
Labor for an hour to help a total stranger
Disabled in a wheel chair that they carry floor by floor
Sixty-eight exhausting flights 'til she's safely out the door.

And what about the fourth plane, United 93.
Already so much terror and more is meant to be.
But sometimes heroes take to flight, like eagles in the air.
These heroes bravely give their lives, that others will be spared.

Just ordinary folks on an extra-ordinary day
These heroes stand the test in extraordinary way.

Beneath the smoke and dust and ash lie the heroes of this land.
Who gave their all, when they heard the call to help their fellow man.
Now with them die heroic tales that never will be known.
God bless these American Heroes that today are summoned home.