On the 14th anniversary of 9/11, Dallas County Retired Volunteer Program Coordinator Evelyn Cox held a program for Station 2 firemen to show her appreciation for them.

She set up a couple tables, filled them with food and expressed to the firemen how much they mean to her and the community.

“I just wanted it to serve as an encouragement to first responders,” Cox said. “First responders put their life on the line every day, seven days a week, 24 hours a day for the people. They’re putting their life on the line. They don’t think about self, they’re unselfish, they love what they do. It takes a special person to be a fireman and to serve in that capacity.”

Selma Fire Department Chief Toney Stephens said he was thankful for having someone think of them on such a somber day.

“It’s a great experience, and it’s very rewarding to have someone take time out of their day just to actually come out and remember the tragedy that firefighters experienced several years ago,” Stephens said. “I’m thankful and grateful anytime someone from the community reaches out just to show us any type of gratitude.”

Cox said she didn’t expect anything in return.

“Giving back is showing love. I can’t pay them for their service, I could never ever pay them for their service because some of them give their lives for it, but I can do my little part … to say thank you and this is what I’m doing for them today to tell them I love them,” Cox said.

Stephens said 9/11 is a hard day for everyone, especially firefighters and first responders.

“I just want to say thanks to everyone, even the ones that was not able to come out and show their support, just having us in their thoughts and their prayers, that really means a lot,” Stephens said.