Remembrances of September 11, 2001 are taking place across the country and around the Bay area today.

A sculpture representing first responders and survivors was dedicated this morning in Tampa. The memorial, which features a steel beam from the World Trade Center, was unveiled in front of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office headquarters.  

Officials said the ultimate sacrifice the thousands of men and women made on 911 will never be forgotten.

"It strikes home with all of us," said HCSO Col. Jim Previetera. "Because we realize that at any given time we may be called into danger just like those heroes were on 9/11."

Pennsylvania artist Becky Ault found a way to incorporate the beam from the South Tower into the sculpture to bring memories to life.

"She surrounded herself with pictures of 9/11 all around her studio in Pennsylvania to try and get the right effect to come up with the proper sculptures," Previetera said of the artist's process.

Officials are hoping the artwork will serve as a location for hope, honor and healing.

"This memorial we hope will serve as a visual focal point to educate future generations in Tampa and Hillsborough County about the events of Sept. 11," Previetera said. "And the impact they had on our country."

Tampa firefighters pay tribute to first responders

Tampa firefighters had a moment of silence Thursday as they paid tribute to the first responders who died on Sept. 11, 2001.

About 100 people attended the annual ceremony at the Tampa Firefighter Museum Thursday.

It's been 13 years since the terrorist attacks that struck the World Trade Center. Tampa Fire Chief Thomas Ford said, even now, that tragedy strikes a chord with the community.

"Every firefighter who has ever worn a uniform has raised their hand and sworn to protect and serve and take care of the community even at the cost of their own lives," he said. "And on that dreadful day in Sept. 11, 2001,343 service members showed they didn't take that oath lightly. They gave their lives in the defense of their community."

Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn also spoke during the ceremony. He told the crowd that this fight may have started on 9/11, but it was far from over.

"We have people we need to settle some debts with and we're going to do that," Buckhorn said.