Coral Springs honors 9/11 victims as fire captain shares powerful memories from the day of attacks
Coral Springs, Florida – The City of Coral Springs marked the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks Friday with a solemn ceremony honoring the people who lost their lives, those who survived and the first responders who rushed into danger.
The gathering took place outside the Northwest Regional Library, near the city’s permanent 9/11 memorial. Residents and community leaders came together to remember the events of that day and reflect on the lasting effect they had on families, neighborhoods and the nation.
Mayor Scott Brook spoke about the tragedy and its continuing impact.
The city’s connection to the attacks was also highlighted through the story of Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department Capt. Adam Schreibman, who was working as a critical care paramedic on Long Island when the attacks began.
In a video posted to the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department’s Facebook page, Schreibman recalled how a radio dispatch sent him and other available emergency personnel toward Manhattan. He was instructed to find a partner and begin traveling toward the city.
Read also: Man arrested after alleged gun threat and fentanyl discovery near Coral Springs hotel
Schreibman brought one of the early digital cameras with him. At the time, he did not understand that he was documenting a historic event that would change the country forever.
“I never thought I’d be taking pictures of history,” Schreibman said.
As Schreibman and his partner drove toward New York City, they saw heavy smoke rising across the horizon. At the same time, frightened people were moving in the opposite direction, trying to get away from the unfolding disaster.
The two paramedics had not yet reached the World Trade Center when bystanders stopped them and asked for help. Schreibman and his partner responded to people experiencing chest pains as confusion and fear spread through the area.
Read also: J.P. Taravella students take center stage in annual Festival of Plays
Then, one of the towers collapsed.
The destruction created chaos and separated Schreibman from his partner. For a short time, his partner feared that Schreibman had been killed in the collapse.
The two eventually found each other again. Rather than leaving the area, they began helping organize staging areas for the rescue workers who were arriving from different locations.
As emergency posts were being established, the second World Trade Center tower fell. The collapse added to the devastation and made the work of emergency personnel even more difficult.
Schreibman and other responders remained in the area for hours. It was not until about 9:30 p.m. that a vehicle arrived to take them back to Long Island.
His account offered a personal look at the confusion, danger and uncertainty experienced by first responders during the attacks. It also underscored how many emergency workers continued working despite the risks and the lack of clear information.
In reflecting on the experience, Schreibman emphasized that the effects of such trauma do not end when the immediate emergency is over. He said first responders must recognize the importance of mental health and make space to address the emotional impact of their work.
He also stressed the value of speaking openly about difficult experiences. Sharing those feelings, he explained, can help people process trauma and may help prevent post-traumatic stress disorder.
Schreibman ended his remarks by remembering those who died in the attacks, as well as the first responders and survivors who continue to deal with health problems decades later.
The Coral Springs ceremony served as both a memorial and a reminder that the consequences of Sept. 11 remain present for many families and emergency workers. Through the city’s memorial and personal stories such as Schreibman’s, officials and residents continue to honor those lost while recognizing the lasting sacrifices made by survivors and first responders.
